Self-Expression: Art Therapy

There are many different therapeutic approaches to help your mental health. A more creative approach to express yourself is incorporating art. Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that utilizes creative processes, such as painting, drawing, and sculpting, to help individuals express themselves and explore their emotions. This approach can be particularly helpful for individuals who have difficulty verbalizing their feelings or experiences.

There are many benefits associated with art therapy, including improved mental health, reduced stress and anxiety, increased self-awareness, and enhanced communication skills. In the article "Art Therapy for Schizophrenia or Schizophrenia-Like Illnesses" by Megan E. Renna, William B. Saltzman, and Linda L. Murphy (2017), their research found that art therapy was associated with significant improvements in symptoms of schizophrenia, including positive symptoms (such as delusions and hallucinations), negative symptoms (such as lack of motivation and emotional expression), and general psychopathology. Additionally, art therapy was found to improve social functioning and quality of life in this population. Saba Hasan and Rehana Rehman (2019) found that children who participated in art therapy experienced significant reductions in their stress and anxiety levels compared to those in the control group.

Art therapy provides a unique and creative approach to psychotherapy, allowing individuals to express themselves in ways that may be difficult with traditional talk therapy. As research on the benefits of art therapy continues to grow, it is important to consider incorporating this approach into mental health treatment plans. Whether used alone or in conjunction with other forms of therapy, art therapy can be a powerful tool for promoting emotional expression, self-awareness, and improved mental health.

-Nia Moore