Art and mental health: Celebrating World Art Day with creative self-expression

byIsaac Mann/February 6, 2024/inNews

“Art is the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.”

– The Oxford English Dictionary

Art promotes creativity, innovation, and cultural diversity worldwide, but did you know it can also benefit your mental health? It can help improve mental health by reducing stress, encouraging creative thinking, increasing brain plasticity, and providing opportunities for self-expression.

Therapeutic benefits of art for mental health

Reducing anxiety: Creating or experiencing art can have a calming effect on the nervous system, acting as a distraction and promoting focus on one thing.
Coping with difficult times: Poetry and other forms of art can provide solace and comfort during times of turmoil or distress.
Providing a safe space: Visiting an art gallery or museum, either online or in-person, can offer a safe and welcoming environment to reflect on the emotions and creative expressions of others.

BeWell@StepOne: Using art to enhance wellbeing

Let World Art Day inspire you to get creative and to appreciate the art around us every day. Whether it’s creating a photo collage, painting, or observing and consuming others’ creations, art can be a really positive way to improve your mental health and wellbeing.

Our BeWell@StepOne Tuesday Peer Support Group in Paignton is focused around craft, so you have the opportunity to get creative, put your artistic skills to the test and create something, or just come along for a coffee and a chat. It‘s the perfect way to meet with others who can personally relate to your experiences.

Learn more about our BeWell@StepOne Craft Group

At Step One Charity, we provide a comprehensive set of free resources to enhance your mental health and wellbeing through our BeWell@StepOne service. Our programme includes a diverse array of courses, workshops, and peer support groups, all aimed at empowering you with the tools and knowledge to effectively manage your mental health.

Explore BeWell@StepOne

Nervous about joining in? Reach out to our BeWell@StepOne team on training@steponecharity.co.uk and they’ll be happy to answer anything you’re unsure about.