Depression is a common and serious mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It goes beyond normal feelings of sadness and can have a significant impact on a person's daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Depression symptoms can vary from person to person and can range in severity. These range from persistent sadness, loss of interest, changes in appetite , feelings of worthlessness, sleep disturbance, fatigue etc:
Art therapy is a form of expressive therapy that utilizes the creative process of making art to improve emotional well-being, promote self-discovery, and address psychological challenges, including depression. Art therapy encourages creative expression through painting, drawing, or modelling. It may work by providing a person with a safe space to express their feelings and allow them to feel more in control over their life. Just as a painting or a piece of music can say something in ways that almost defy description, art therapy provides individuals facing physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges with new pathways toward understanding and self-expression.
In recent years, many research studies have shown that art therapy plays a significant role in alleviating depression symptoms in a variety of population.
In a study done on prison populations in northern Florida Gussak (2007) stated that art therapy significantly reduces depressive symptoms. Similarly, a randomized, controlled, and single-blind study about art therapy for depression with the elderly showed that painting as an adjuvant treatment for depression can reduce depressive and anxiety symptoms (Ciasca et al., 2018). Wang et al. (2011) conducted group painting therapy on 30 patients with depression for 3 months, and found that painting therapy could promote their social function recovery, improve their social adaptability and quality of life.
Art therapy has also been used to treat adolescent depression., Riley (2003) stated that traditional verbal therapies may fail to help adolescents with depression because their resistance to therapy is so strong, and their sense of disillusionment is so pervasive. However, if the therapist enters the adolescent’s depressive world view by offering art as a means of communication, there is a good possibility of creating some alternative…viable treatment [that provides] a lens for viewing adolescents’ perceptions through their own illustrations and narratives. .
Clay art therapy is also increasingly being used to treat major depressive disorder. As a form of art therapy, clay work has been shown to reduce emotional distress (Kimport & Robbins, 2012), strengthen ego resilience (Jang & Choi, 2012), and help in integrating multisensory processes through three-dimensional creative work (Elbrecht & Antclif, 2014; Sholt & Gavron, 2006, as cited in Nan & Ho, 2017). CAT involves various processes, ranging from a gentle touch to the intense input of physical energy towards pounding, rolling, and molding the clumps of clay (Nan & Ho, 2017). According to Hinz (2009), the various internal processes involved in the art of clay-making can interact to aid emotion regulation and enable psychophysiological attunement, which enhances the regulatory functions of the autonomic nervous system (Schore, 2009, as cited in Nan & Ho, 2017).
A number of studies (Bar-Sela et al., 2007; Thyme et al., 2009; Lin et al., 2012; Abdulah and Abdulla, 2018) showed that art therapy for cancer patients could enhance the vitality of patients and participation
So how does art therapy help:
Expression of emotions
Creating art provides a nonverbal way to express complex emotions that may be difficult to articulate. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with depression who struggle to put their feelings into words.
Catharsis and Release
Art therapy can offer a safe space for emotional release and catharsis. Engaging in the creative process can allow individuals to channel their negative emotions and experiences into their artwork.
Distraction and focus
Engaging in art-making requires focus and concentration, which can temporarily divert attention from depressive thoughts and rumination. This shift in focus can provide relief from distressing mental patterns.
Self-Exploration and Insight: The process of creating art and reflecting on the artwork can lead to insights into one's thoughts, feelings, and triggers. This self-awareness can contribute to a better understanding of one's depression and its underlying causes.
Empowerment and Achievement: Successfully completing art projects can foster a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem. This sense of achievement can counteract feelings of hopelessness and helplessness often associated with depression.
Stress Reduction: Engaging in creative activities can activate the relaxation response, leading to reduced stress and anxiety levels. Art therapy can promote a sense of calm and emotional well-being.
Building Coping Skills: Art therapy can help individuals develop healthy coping mechanisms for managing depressive symptoms. It offers an alternative way to cope with challenges and stressors.
Social Interaction: Participating in group art therapy sessions can provide social support and a sense of belonging. Connecting with others who share similar experiences can reduce feelings of isolation.
Visualization and Future Orientation: Art therapy can help individuals visualize their goals and aspirations. Creating art that represents a desired future can foster a sense of hope and motivation.
Symbolic Expression: Artwork can serve as a symbolic representation of inner experiences, allowing individuals to explore and communicate abstract concepts related to their depression.
It's important to note that the effectiveness of art therapy for depression may vary from person to person. Art therapy is often used in conjunction with other therapeutic approaches, such as counselling, medication, and lifestyle changes. If you're considering art therapy as part of your depression management plan, it's advisable to consult with a qualified art therapist or mental health professional who can tailor the approach to your specific needs and preferences.
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