Unveiling the Healing Power of Arts on Mental Health
By Hassana Suleiman Kandi,
Health is not merely the absence of disease in the human body; rather, it encompasses the physical, social, and emotional well-being of individuals. Mental health, specifically, refers to a person’s ability to cope with life’s stresses, recognize their abilities, and function effectively in work and learning environments.
Mental health is an integral part of our well-being, significantly contributing to our daily decision-making ability. It encompasses the complexity of an individual’s social and psychological life, highlighting the urgent need for action on mental health. It is vital for personal development.
However, mental health is experienced differently by each person. This includes conditions like mental disorders, psychological disabilities, and other mental states associated with impairments. People are inherently vulnerable to mental health challenges.
Factors such as social interactions and personal skills strengthen our resilience, and mental health issues can be mitigated by identifying social and emotional determinants. Some issues require actions that go beyond the health sector.
Fortunately, various forms of art offer protective benefits that can bridge the gap for common mental health conditions. The arts play a pivotal role in mental health. Engaging with the arts can help moderate the risk of mental health problems.
Art exists in many forms, including visual arts, performing arts, and literary arts, each offering unique benefits. Taking a break from daily routines to engage in artistic activities can significantly improve mental health, as the benefits are numerous and deeply engaging.
Visual Arts: Anyone, regardless of their skill level, can participate in visual arts. Many people have been encouraged to look after their health by utilizing their leisure time creatively. Visual art is therapeutic, boosting self-esteem and enhancing skills. This includes painting, drawing, and sculpture.
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Performing Arts: Music, dance, poetry, and storytelling are accessible to all, regardless of skill level. These activities improve mood, promote physical health, boost emotional well-being, and help ward off negative thoughts. Lady Gaga, for example, has famously used music and performance to manage anxiety.
Literary Arts: Writing, poetry, and spoken words can also be effective in addressing mental health issues. These forms of expression are open to all and can help with mood expression and self-reflection. Schools should encourage students to engage in literary arts, as they foster emotional expression and can boost self-confidence.
Crafting: Activities like knitting and woodworking are known to promote relaxation, reduce stress, improve mood, and alleviate anxiety. Many people, particularly women, engage in crafting as a fun and therapeutic way to relieve stress.
Numerous individuals have coped with and overcome mental health challenges through art. For example, the renowned painter Edvard Munch struggled with anxiety but found solace in his artwork. Art stimulates brain regions that promote neural connections, adaptability, and the release of endorphins, all of which improve mood.
Many people have overcome common mental health problems such as anxiety and depression by engaging in the arts. Art provides a unique outlet for emotional expression and helps individuals realize their potential. Creativity is innate in everyone, regardless of age, race, or skill level.
Art also fosters understanding and unity between individuals or communities, leading to a stereotype-free environment and encouraging cohesive socialization. Furthermore, it helps represent emotions through body language, words, and patterns, and the most exciting part is that anyone, including individuals with disabilities, can participate in art.
It is crucial not only to protect and promote the mental well-being of all but also to deepen the value placed on mental health. A committed approach to addressing the needs of those with mental health conditions will undoubtedly improve overall mental health outcomes.
Hassana Suleiman Kandi is a student at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University Lapai and an intern with PRNigeria. She can be reached at: [email protected].
