Category: Creative Arts

Passion For Creativity Leads To A Healthier Mental And Emotional State

 

Source: Pixabay.com

 

Art is the expression of one’s soul; any form of expression is therapeutic.

Whoever said art does not benefit the mind and the soul clearly doesn’t know how to create nor appreciate one. For art is a way to allow the brain to articulate the tragedies and victories of a person’s life. Granting creativity access to one’s being is like letting the rain wash away all the sorrowful and disappointing fragments of the day.

While others are not so convinced with the healthy perks of art, construed by the negative misconceptions and beliefs towards the discipline, there are numerous studies that support the thought of creativity as a form of therapy for various ages and genders.

“While some think the idea of “intervention” is not part of the art therapeutic relationship, intervention is the necessary specific, focused action that is taken to achieve or support change within any therapy of any kind,” Cathy Malchiodi, Ph.D., LPCC, LPAT, ATR-BC, REAT, says. She explains further, “Applying interventions is a central component of any helping professional’s role and is predicated on the second aspect– relationship.”

Art is universal. The creativity of the mind is not merely contained by what others can perceive.

Art goes beyond the superficial factoids of a person’s emotions. It conveys multiple hidden elements about somebody that can only be revealed through a stroke of a brush; a strum of a note; sculpt of an angle; the eloquence of the mind. Which is why, if you really want to know someone hand them a piece of paper and a set of coloring materials or a musical instrument or whatever it is that a person prefers to let the creativity flow from the system.

Robert Gray, M.A. (Art Therapy), explains,”Images represent an alternative medium for expression and communication. Once experiences are externalised as images, it is easier to talk about them by describing the artwork or talking about the art-making process.”

 

Source: Unsplash.com

 

Art’s beneficial contributions

  1. Reduction of stress

Any artistic activity is calming. It takes the mind off of the world for a period of time, blocking out any forms of stressors. Being exposed to aggravations and nuisances can bruise a person’s emotional well-being and drain the mental state to the point of losing all composure and just screaming all frustrations out to the void. Art can take you away from that dire moment of your life and just let you reconnect with yourself. This then promotes healing of the soul.

 

  1. Boosts self-esteem

In life, there are things that you can’t win. And it’s quite frustrating that, no matter how hard you put your mind, body, and soul into something that you do, the outcome is still disappointing. But with art, there is a promise of creation, a bit of a struggle, and result. Art provides a sense of accomplishment which then boosts a person’s ego and self-worth.

 

Source: Pixabay.com

 

  1. Increased concentration and motivation.

Creativity does not require skill or experience. However, in constant practice, a person can achieve improvement. Art is sometimes overwhelming for it does not pledge favorable conclusions; you may not like what you’ve made. Still, the person has gained something out of it. The process of creativity can increase a person’s focus, motivation, and ardor in performing different kinds of tasks.

 

  1. Enhances innovative thinking

When engaging in art, designing things and writing a piece, part of the brain is triggered; that part that is not normally utilized for most of the day. By way of thinking creatively, you tap into the brain’s mechanism to produce chemicals that can spur and inspire innovation.

“One of the many therapeutic benefits of art, which is already considered one form of therapeutic treatment, is that it allows you to express yourself without speaking,” according to Constance Scharff, Ph.D. “When you’re not worried about using the right words or how others will judge what you’re saying, you are free to be more genuine in your expressions and even delve into feelings you may otherwise avoid or ignore.”

People who are adept at thinking creatively can easily suggest alternative solutions to various forms of predicaments within the workplace or in the community.

 

Source: Unsplash.com

 

  1. Resilience to changes

The repercussions for the passing of time do not exclude anyone; therefore, it is the mind’s objective to adapt to the changes. A person’s life depends on the ability of the mind to become resilient to whatever it may encounter, most especially with unfamiliar territories and circumstances. When a person was engaged in addiction or has experienced trauma, the brain should reroute itself. Art can be therapeutic in a way that it lets a person recover from forms of negative occurrences, depending entirely on creating improved thought processes. By doing so, art creates a new pathway of knowledge and skills that can lead a person to become smarter in dealing with crises they might encounter.

While art can just be a form of past time or hobby to some people, to others, it is an escape.  Creativity has shown significant beneficence not only to children who have mental disorders but also to adults who are going through a rough time. So to say, art incorporated into life is highly advantageous.

 

Mental Illness Behind The Jane Eyre Novel

 

Source: mentalfloss.com

 

Literature is said to be the written reflection of the society, culture and its issues based on a particular time.

Jane Eyre was a novel written by Charlotte Bronte about a heroine finding her way and place in the society. It challenges the cultural and religious norm of that time. Also, it tackles gender and social class issues and places the main characters in the position to examine their moral and spiritual sensitivities. The element of suspense in the novel was the existence of a ‘lunatic’ first wife who was described as, “what it was, whether beast or human being, one could not, at first sight, tell: it groveled, seemingly, on all fours; it snatched and growled like some strange wild animal: but it was covered with clothing and a quantity of dark, grizzled hair, wild as mane, hid its head and face.”

Bertha Mason, the first wife, of Mr. Rochester was of Creole descent and has a family history of madness. Due to the insanity and the animalistic behavior of his wife, Mr. Rochester opted to imprison his wife in the attic under the care of a nurse. In the Victorian era, locking away or domesticated attention of mentally ill individuals are considered less harsh then taking them in the asylums. The ‘madness of Bertha’ has influenced society’s perception and awareness of mental illness.

 

Source: publishing.cdlib.org

 

Due to the popularity of Jane Eyre, some experts and academics even studied and compared the condition of Bertha Mason to an individual diagnosed with Huntington ’s disease (HD). “Simply put, HD is caused when one gene (or allele) of a usually healthy gene pair we all carry is abnormally elongated. This HD gene mutation is dominant, so that anyone who carries it will develop HD,” wrote Jenni Ogden, PhD. Huntington ’s disease also called as Huntington’s chorea is a hereditary disorder which leads to the death of brain cells.

Early symptoms show subtle problems with mood and mental ability. Next, overall lack of coordination and unsteady gait is observed. As the disease develops, jerky and uncoordinated body movements become noticeable. Physical ability slowly worsens until coordinated movements become difficult and the person is unable to talk. Mental abilities are also affected which causes cognitive and psychiatric disorders. Similar to Huntington’s tenets, Bertha Mason depicted a disorder with a strong family history which is suggestive of an autosomal dominant inherited condition with adult onset and culminating in suicide.

Many criticize Bronte on her depiction of Bertha’s Creole heritage and her complexion along with her madness as evidence to be identified as savage but at the same time also seen as a doppelganger for Jane. The doppelganger takes on the novel may not be too far-fetched since Jane Eyre is even imprisoned by the red room as a child and abstract sense of confinement as a woman of low social class. During those times, women suffer too many restraints and rules. “Even if they belonged to higher social classes, most women throughout history have been enslaved by men. Until recent times, women throughout Europe, the Middle East, and Asia were unable to have any influence over the politics, religion or culture,” wrote Steve Taylor, PhD.

Thankfully, the rigid social level, the limitations of women and stigma of mental illness are improving and far better as compared before; however, the issues remain and despite countless efforts from advocacy groups and healthcare sector. Feminists groups, female initiative campaigns, call for gender equality and reports of sexual assaults stay as problems that are yet to eliminate. After all, the feelings of entrapment of Jane Eyre and Bertha Mason might still be the same confines we face today.

 

Source: psychologicalscience.org

 

With the present situation, a lot has changed since research, science and digital technology have intertwined and allowed the discovery of treatments and innovations on how to treat and handle mental illness. “Going back to a bit of history, World War II put a big spotlight on mental health as the war had serious mental health impacts on soldiers (war impacts EVERYONE and it has a trickle down effect through the generations),” wrote Kimberly Key, PhD. “Slowly, a shift in perceptions occurred where people could safely seek treatment for adjustment, transitions, and relational issues without feeling stigmatized.”

There has been a lot of promising changes, however, we still need more human involvement and understanding in relation to our attitude and behavior with persons suffering from mental illness.

The Evolution Of Mental Illness

 

Source: collective-evolution.com

 

Despite many improvements in treatment and research of mental illnesses, there are still existing social stigmas that hinder the society from addressing the issue of increasing incidence. In the prehistoric times, mental illness was seen in a mystical perspective. Without division between magic, religion and health care, without any real understanding of the cause of the occurrence of the disease, the abnormal behavior is attributed to the supernatural. Treatment would include casting of spells by Shaman and exorcists. From 500 BC to 500 AC, various mental disorders were pinpointed as melancholia, mania, hysteria, delusions, and hallucinations. Then, in the 15th century, the ideas and opinions on mental illness surrounds in arguments of the existence of witches, finding basis and proofs that witches-oftentimes women-do exist, how to identify a witch such as deviant behaviors, insanity caused by possession of the devil, salvation of the soul was given more importance than the physical body and physical punishments.

According to Neel Burton, MD, “In antiquity, people did not think of ‘madness’ (a term that they used indiscriminately for all forms of psychosis) in terms of mental disorder but of divine punishment or demonic possession.”

 

Source: sarbjohal.com

 

The 16th century was a time when mentally ill individuals were dangerous and were locked up in order to protect society. Mental illness was a topic tackled in literature. This was evident in the Shakespeare’s plays, but it was most apparent in the play “Hamlet.” Several characters in Hamlet might be identified as mad. Most notable are Hamlet and Ophelia. Deaths of their fathers drove the madness showcase in this game. Hamlet’s behaviors suggested a mental disorder. For instances, seeing the ghost of his father and the ghost urging him to seek revenge is an example of hallucinations. Visual and auditory hallucinations are one of the symptoms seen in individuals with some form of schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. Many people with anxiety, depression and panic attacks also encounter hallucinations. At some point, Hamlet questions his insanity whether it is, in fact, the ghost of his father or rather the devil itself who is betraying his soul.  In the end, his madness and quest for revenge resulted in the most tragic of the story: Death to himself and his loved ones. Another major character who also exhibited symptoms of mental illness is Ophelia. Ophelia showed signs of depression over the death of his father. The death of her father also destroyed her self-identify and it too bloomed the feelings of helplessness regarding her own life. The subject of mental health during these times may not have prompted dramatic action towards the treatment and management of mental illness, at least it became a vehicle of awareness regarding the fact that mental illness exists and can happen to anyone.

In the 17th century, the general belief was that if “mad” people behave like animals, they would be treated as one. A neuroanatomist and doctor, Thomas Willis advocated treatments such as curative discipline, fetters, blows and medical treatment.  The law decree that a mentally ill individual lacked the ability to reason so his affairs are handed over to someone else – nearest friend – who will not substantially benefit from his death. The care of the ill was a domestic manner and cared at home or private mental institution.

The 18th century was a dark age for the mentally ill. They were classified as prisons who are oftentimes, neglected. During this period, there was the development of asylums usually away from the public. The 19th century was a breakthrough and become a pivotal point in what mental illness is today. The mentally ill were treated in a specialized facility resembling a homey environment. Decent beds replaced the prison room with pictures of nature and loved ones and other decorative objects. A structured schedule was implemented, and inappropriate behaviors were tackled with the goal of restoring sanity and become a productive member of society.

In the 1960s, there was something referred to as “antipsychiatry.” Mark L. Ruffalo, DPsa, LCSW, wrote, “Perhaps the most pervasive — and harmful — claim made by antipsychiatry is that mental illness doesn’t really exist, and that the treatments for mental illness are merely concealed attempts to exert social control over the population.”

“There were many others who joined in on the attack on asylums, including Thomas Szasz, R. D. Laing, and Franco Basaglia, and using history to do so,” wrote Matthew Smith, PhD. “Political beliefs, personal turmoil, and the spirit of the 1960s—not to mention the beginning of deinstitutionalization—all played a role in shaping their arguments, as such factors usually do, even in the most “scientific” areas of medicine.”

 

Source: mental.healthguru.com

 

With the present situation, a lot has changed since research, science and digital technology have intertwined and allowed the discovery of treatments and innovations on how to treat and handle mental illness. There has been a lot of promising changes, however, we still need more human involvement and understanding in relation to our attitude and behavior with persons suffering from mental illness.

Understanding Art Therapy

Art therapy? Healing through creativity? Indeed, art can be a form of therapy. Art can heal lives.

Art therapy: Woman in attire, creatively painting for art therapy

Source: pinterest.com

By blending creative art techniques with traditional psychotherapeutic approaches, individuals can uniquely connect with their artistic thoughts while fostering mental health growth.

Art Therapy Definition

Experts estimate that mental illnesses affect one in every three people. Imagine the extent and how widespread these mental health conditions (anxiety, depression, and others) are if its estimation is correct. The incidence of mental illness is at its all-time high, and the increase in these cases is attributed to the use of technology; probably, due to lesser stigma about the condition, more and more clients are seeking help and openly talking about it.

Claire Henderson, Ph.D., and co-authors wrote that “Evidence suggests that factors increasing the likelihood of treatment avoidance or delay before presenting for self-care include (1) lack of knowledge to identify features of mental illnesses, (2) ignorance about how to access treatment, (3) prejudice against people who have a mental illness and (4) expectation of discrimination against people diagnosed with mental illness.”

Innovation and research continue to find a deeper understanding of conditions and procedures; however, according to numerous accounts, people suffering from mental disorders shared that art therapy private practice is a significant factor in their recovery.

Psychotherapy takes many examples. One of which is art therapy. According to the American Art Therapy Association, credentialed art therapist utilizes the creative therapeutic process and anything related to art to aid people in an exploration of their emotional responses and strengths, and thoughts in a different vehicle.

Art therapy utilizes images and metaphors to understand yourself,” shares Lara Hanson, LCSW, a verified art expert of Psychology Today. “Tapping into a creative, imaginative side of yourself becomes a new “window” or type of view into yourself that allows you to solve problems through a different perspective more effectively.”

What’s The Rationale Behind Art Therapy Treatment?

The rationale behind expressive art therapy treatment is its utilization of art as a primary means of communication. It can be helpful in instances where an individual finds it difficult to verbalize his thoughts and feelings. Using motor skills and physical objects like paper, art materials, and paintbrushes often fosters an atmosphere of connection between artists and those around them. Other than helping those with mental health issues, the benefits of art therapy help different people, including young children, the elderly, and those serving sentences in prison.

The way art therapy works goes beyond tangible arts. It involves expressive arts, such as music therapy and dance therapy. Different types of therapists work with people depending on their varying needs.

How Does This Treatment Function?

Art therapy is a three-way process between the client, the practiced professional art therapist, and the result. Art therapy may offer an opportunity for creativity and expression. Depending on the client’s needs, The session can be done in a one-to-one or group class. Since art therapy is highly versatile, it can be carried out in various settings: schools, hospitals, community centers, etc.

Creative art therapy conducted by art therapists from the professional credentials board typically lasts 1 to 1.5 hours and should be done regularly. During its session, involvement or participation in the activity will solely depend on the individual; if you are in a support group session with a board-certified art therapist (often with a master’s degree), observing the class is also allowed. As part of art therapy, a counselor may encourage you to display your work in front of everyone. This can help the patient accept his emotions and feel social acceptance when shared with others.

“Art therapy bypasses the left side and stimulates traumatic memory on the right side; as an individual process their artwork, the speech area of the brain reactivates, thereby reintegrating the right and left sides of the brain to promote healthy brain functioning,” noted Susan Clifton, MSW, LCSW, a facilitator of psychotherapy groups and family and couple sessions and Social Work Director for Dorothea Dix Hospital.

What Are Some Of The Artistic Expression Creativities Connected To This Form Of Treatment?

The versatility of art therapy services can curb boredom when using different mediums. In an art therapy services session, art therapists work to make you do some of the following examples of exercises:

Painting

  • Creating a painting from a blank canvas is one of the purest forms of art. Creating art through attractive creative art therapy allows you to do whatever you want. It can be unsafe, especially for first-timers, but your registered art therapist will guide you by providing exercises and prompts. They will also teach basic creative techniques of painting.
Art therapy

Source: sf.co.ua

Art Sculpting

  • Sculpting is creating a figure using clay or other pliable materials. It allows the creation of a concrete structure of something intangible. You can bring to life your emotions, self-esteem, and feelings.

Drawing / Illustration

  • Some people feel the healing process is more comfortable in familiar and straightforward mediums. In a related field of drawing, each material needed is readily available.

Photography

  • Utilizing a camera as a tool to see the world from a different perspective hopefully gives motivation and a venue for self-expression and self-awareness for patients with art-making enthusiasm and mental illness.

Art Therapy

These are just a few creative art and expressive art therapy exercises an individual can do. Art therapy exercises take place under the guidance of an art therapist; the individual and their specialist will discuss and explore an art media of their liking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Some Techniques Used In Art Therapy?

It incorporates various methods such as painting, finger painting, sketching or drawing pictures or images of emotions, molding sculptures or forming shapes with clay, and carving wood into constructive figures or architectural marvels. These activities are done under the careful guidance of licensed therapists to help people maximize the benefits of art therapy.

How Does Art Therapy Affect The Brain?

There is a growing body of evidence in the fields of rehabilitation medicine and neuroscience that demonstrates how art positively influences brain function by affecting brain wave patterns, emotions, and even our nervous system. Besides, art can elevate serotonin levels in our bodies. Remarkably, such benefits are not limited to creating art but also extend to experiencing and appreciating it.

How Does Art Therapy Affect The Body?

Evidence suggests that creative interventions offer benefits to individuals across various age groups. Research highlights that such therapies can bolster communication abilities and attentiveness while reducing the sensation of seclusion. Moreover, engagement in these therapeutic activities is proven to result in enhanced self-esteem, confidence levels, and personal awareness.

What Are The Goals Of Art Therapy?

It is an innovative technique specialists employ to help patients interpret, express, and resolve emotions and thoughts. The individuals collaborate with an expert in this field to examine their feelings and comprehend any conflicts or emotional distress needing resolution via creative means.

How Long Does Art Therapy Take To Be Effective?

Research findings show that it takes around 8 to 15 weeks for certain therapeutic techniques based on art therapy to impact patients coping with trauma positively. These methods significantly reduce traumatic symptoms and are known to be effective in alleviating stress among individuals suffering from depression.

Who Can Benefit From Art Therapy?

Art therapy can be employed in various circumstances to address various issues. For example, adults undergoing extreme stress may benefit from such an approach. Besides, children facing behavioral or social challenges in school or within the household can find solace in these interventions. Individuals of any age who have encountered a distressing event and young individuals with learning disabilities may also find this method helpful. Furthermore, people with brain injuries might discover improvement through creative techniques tailored to their needs.

How Do Emotions Affect Art?

For instance, people who view works of art with negative emotional themes tend to exhibit increased frowning (a sign of negative feelings), while those exposed to creations with positive themes often display more smiling (indicating happiness). Besides, heightened skin conductance responses (signifying arousal) are observed when viewers engage with emotionally evocative creations.

Creative activities have the power to enhance personal well-being by offering individuals avenues for expressing thoughts, emotions, and viewpoints. This approach has gained wide recognition as a means of fostering personal growth, mindfulness practices, and self-exploration journeys.

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