Using creative techniques, art therapy treats psychiatric disorders and enhances mental well-being. Art therapy can help patients live better lives since artists have lower amounts of the stress hormone cortisol.
People can express themselves more freely, enhance their mental health, and strengthen their bonds with others through art therapy. The foundation of art therapy is the notion that creative expression can aid in healing and improve mental health.
Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that facilitates the expression of emotions and experiences that are difficult to put into words. Here, the creation of art is not as significant as the healing that results from the process.
Studies have demonstrated the various health benefits, both mental and physical, that art and art therapy may provide. For instance, four hours of guided creative art therapy exercises—such as drawing—improved the psychological well-being of participants in a study of cancer patients by decreasing negative feelings and elevating positive ones.
Using art therapy can help people feel less distressed and in conflict, function better cognitively, have higher self-esteem, and develop social and emotional resilience.
Research has also demonstrated the positive effects of other creative endeavours on emotional and mental health, including writing, dance, theatre, and music.
Treatments that incorporate artistic endeavours into therapy sessions are known as creative and artistic therapies. A qualified professional leads these sessions. No prior art training or experience is required. And they are beneficial to people of all ages.
It also goes by the name of dance therapy and incorporates dance and body movement. For instance, you can experiment with various rhythms and motions. It's not required that you have any dance training or experience.
People are said to benefit from dance movement therapy:
feeling closer to their actual surroundings and bodies.
overcoming uncomfortable emotions around their appearance or body.
examining challenging situations with deeds rather than words.
Dramatherapy is the use of various performance and dramatic exercises for therapeutic purposes. You can make up characters, narrate tales, play games, or do pantomimes, for instance. Masks, puppets, and other items are also options. Speaking will not be required for all events, and acting training or experience is not required.
It calls for the use of visual art supplies. You may use collage, paint, chalk, crayons, or clay, for instance. Digital media, including pictures and videos, is another option. No prior art training or experience is required.
You can use art supplies to communicate your emotions or experiences, with your therapist's help. Your therapist is not going to criticise or interpret your artwork for you. They will assist you in examining the meaning and emotions it holds for you.
You may discuss the rationale behind your choice of colour or medium for your work, for instance, but not everything you do needs to have a purpose.