As a certified art therapist, I of course have to open the discussion of Art Therapy. I love Art Therapy as it engages the mind and body in ways that are distinct from verbal articulation alone, it opens the door to interpret how they are feeling in a different way. This form of therapy invites alternative modes of receptive and expressive communication, which can circumvent the limitations of language, at times I find it circumvents overthinking. In therapy if I ask someone to write their strengths, I might get a different answer if I ask them to draw their strength.
There have been studies that found that art therapy significantly reduced depression in 6 out of 9 cases. In seven studies examining anxiety, six of those studies showed a strong decrease in anxiety. Art therapy is a tool to help patients interpret, express, and resolve their emotions and thoughts and for most it feels safe once they get over the concerns of their art being criticized.
Art therapy can be so much fun in self-discovery that people can work through complex problems and feel accepting and comfortable with what life events have handed them. At times it can be so hard to talk out loud traumatic events, drawing the feelings can feel less threatening.
Have questions, ask me, info@mindhealthconnect.ca
Ref: Michigan State
Ref: www.theembodylab.com