Whether you create or admire art, art can be a great comfort and source of joy, and art can sweep you away into another time and place.
The use of art psychotherapy in Singapore has shown to be very effective in treating issues associated with anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Through the experience of observing and creating art alone, individuals can process their emotions and develop a sense of well-being.
The purpose of this article is to provide a closer look at art therapy and discuss its psychological benefits.
Know More About Art Therapy
Art psychotherapy is a therapeutic technique that involves the use of art as a medium, in addition to the use of several other therapeutic methods, such as cognitive and behavioral, and it can be used to address almost any psychological issue.
It can assist individuals in exploring their feelings, resolving past conflicts, and improving social skills. Art therapists use art as a medium by incorporating various forms of art that individuals can enjoy, such as painting, drawing, clay modeling, and sculpture.
How Can Art Therapy Be Helpful?
Art can be a powerful form of therapy, and it provides a safe environment where people can express themselves creatively and constructively. It may be the only way many individuals feel comfortable talking about their emotional state. For others, for whom the act of communicating can be difficult, it may be the most viable option.
Art psychotherapy is known to provide mental health benefits to many individuals in the following ways:
- It helps with emotional healing.
- It can help patients to understand their feelings and thoughts.
- It offers the opportunity to learn a new skill.
- It helps individuals to use their creativity.
- Finally, it helps patients to express themselves.
Purpose
In art therapy, the primary purpose of the practice is to help people explore self-exploration and deal with traumatic experiences. In doing so, they can continuously evolve and develop new coping skills. It is imperative to know that professional art skills are not required to take an art therapy session.
Humans are naturally creative, and all you need to do is use your imagination. Transparency is key to an effective art therapy session and get in touch with your emotions. Once you unleash your creativity, you’ll be surprised at how much you discover.
Studies have also shown that creating art is linked to increased dopamine levels, and it has even been compared to meditation due to its calming effects on the mind. This chemical is released when we do something satisfactory, making us feel better. For example, increased levels of these “feel-good” hormones can stress relief and cure depression.
Techniques
People use creation and appreciation to express emotions, relieve stress, improve self-esteem, or develop social skills in the art world.
Various techniques are used in art therapy. These include:
- Collage
- Colouring
- Making doodles and scribbles
- Journal writing.
- Drawings & Paintings
- Photography
- Clay Modeling
As the therapist helps patients create art, they analyze how different art forms express their unspoken feelings. They can identify the behaviors and understand the underlying causes of those emotions.
