[ Reading ] Blog 3

Mental health is on the rise and is the leading cause of disability in youth. Exposure to poverty, violence, stressful environments, special needs, and other factors drive the risk up for some kids even more. It’s grown worse with Covid and isolation. While we have the resources to treat these problems in wealthy countries, some in other countries and even the less fortunate families might not be able to afford these same resources. This is something creative arts could step in and provide help for those unable to seek something professional. Art has been shown to boost wellbeing and expression. It provides a sense of community and personality. Anyone can do it from drawing to performance to singing. It is also able to provide an outlet to express trauma and hardships. It provides a coping mechanism to help with recovery. Art also has a boost in increasing sleep, resilience, and self confidence. Creative tasks have an effect on the brain itself with boosting alpha and theta brain waves on the hippocampus which then in turn boosts moods of relaxation and memory retrieval. While studies and tests need to be done for certain, art is definitely a way to help ease mental health concerns in youth. Evidence is pointing to a positive outcome and hopefully this will be a permanent way to help youth in mental health crises to cope and express themselves. While it won’t be the solution, it’s a step forward to helping kids who need it and promote well being and equity to everyone.

https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-023-03226-6