Prescribing art for mental health

Prescribing art for mental health

All In The Mind

In this time of social isolation, many of us have turned to getting creative...baking bread, picking up a paintbrush, or checking out online theatre performances and virtual gallery tours. Now there’s research on whether prescribing art could help with mental health conditions, such as depression. Take a dose of culture for your wellbeing.

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28:569 Aug 2020

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Healing Through Creativity: The Power of Art for Mental Health

Although what we were engaged in was not art therapy, absolutely it was therapeutic in its consequences.

Ever thought about using art as a way to boost your mental health? In this episode of 'All In The Mind', the idea of social prescribing is brought into the spotlight, focusing on how art can play a vital role in mental well-being. Catherine Boydell, a Professor of Mental Health at the Black Dog Institute, shares her insights on the 'Culture Dose' program, an arts engagement initiative that's been making waves in Australia.

This program isn't your typical art therapy; it's a guided experience that involves observing art, understanding its context, and even creating your own pieces. While it's not officially labeled as therapy, many participants find it incredibly therapeutic. Boydell discusses how the program has shown promising results, particularly in reducing symptoms of depression and increasing optimism among participants. The episode also explores the growing interest in online art programs, which make these benefits more accessible to a wider audience.

If you're curious about alternative ways to improve your mental health, this episode offers a fresh perspective on how creativity can be a powerful tool for healing.

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