Benefits of art therapy
Art therapy refers to a form of psychotherapy with the use of various artistic methods and platforms. Through art therapy, patients may engage in several art-related activities such as drawing, painting, and sculpting among others. In various mental health cases and psychological illnesses, therapy using art techniques are advised for some patients because of many health benefits including the following:
1. Improved communication
Psychotherapy that is done through art-related activities is said to be an effective tool in communicating with people with mental or psychological disorders. Through artistic expression, patients are able to communicate in various ways through their art pieces. Feelings of sadness and happiness are just some of the emotions that patients can communicate to the people around them through art therapy.
2. Stress relief
Creative expression is also known to help relieve stress and anxiety among people with mental disorders and even those who are deemed as normal individuals. The simple act of creating shapes and figures using various art materials is said to be very therapeutic for the mind, body, and soul. Art is considered a form of expression of one’s thoughts and emotions and being able to create something through art helps people forget about their problems in life and therefore become calmer and happier.
3. Boost in social skills
Art therapy also helps boost the self-image and confidence of normal people and patients with varying degrees of psychological disorders. Through art-related activities, people will be able to feel better about themselves and this will eventually translate to better interaction with other people.
The use of art therapy in various mental and/or psychological conditions has started many decades ago and continues to be relevant in present times of because of its various health benefits. Many people also prefer art therapy for some conditions because the activities involved in it are considered fun compared to traditional the psychotherapy approach.