The Creative Saviour — Arts and Mental Health
Contributed by Fatima Nasir
In this era, where technology rules everywhere, people are talking about the importance of mental health through different mediums. Today, where the whole world is caught by a pandemic, it is very necessary to maintain our mental health as it is equally important as our physical health. People are suffering from anxiety, stress, fear, isolation and through many other problems but they do not know how to get over these feelings. Art therapy is one of the best ways where they can find their mental peace. In this modern era, people are getting aware of mental health and how it plays an important role in our day to day life. If you are not mentally well, you are not able to do your basic chores and the worst thing is sometimes you cannot even figure out why you are feeling or acting in a certain way.
Art plays a valuable role in maintaining your mental health. Most of the individuals can resolve their issues by expressing themselves through art. It is undoubtedly a way to reduce stress, anxiety, loneliness and many other problems. Through art, you express your inner self. You get to know the real you and you become aware of yourself and your feelings. It takes you to your unconscious level and it amazes you by showing some part of your personality about which you had no idea before. Writing, drawing, painting, sketching, coloring, calligraphy all are powerful means to mental health. It helps people to meditate and to introspect them so that they can reflect on their own selves in order to better understand the situation.
Some people who have severe mental illness and who are unable to communicate, art is the best way for them to connect with others. It is not a pleasant experience always and it could be painful for many people. It is because sometimes it could be traumatic for them or they do not want to be aware of their inner self.
There are many benefits of art therapy such as self-discovery, introspection, emotional release, stress relief and the most important thing is it helps to increase one’s self esteem. Some studies suggested that through art therapy, dopamine releases in the body which in turn is the root cause of feeling happier. Art could prove very beneficial if you are suffering from anxiety or depression. As it helps you to connect with yourself, it also helps you to connect with others in a longer run. If you want to maintain your mental health, engage yourself in any art and help yourself to grow and heal in a better way.
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Contributed by Fatima Nasir
Get in touch: www.thelittleart.org
