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Art is a common form of self-expression, a way to communicate one's feelings and opinions about a subject. But on top of that, it is also used as a form of therapy. Experts often recommend it as an additional tool for patients to communicate or express themselves.

Sometimes, when verbal communication is not enough, psychotherapists recommend art therapy to help patients reduce conflict and distress, improve cognitive functions and build emotional resilience. But how does art therapy work?

It reduces trauma symptoms

For people who have experienced trauma, talking about it sometimes makes it more painful and difficult. This makes art therapy a potentially effective treatment method. In a study, art therapy was found to reduce trauma and depression symptoms in adults who had traumatic experiences. It gives them a safe space, where they can tell a story through symbols that represent their emotions in an experience. 

It improves quality of life

Art therapy was seen to improve the quality of life and reduce depression symptoms in cancer patients. In another study, five weekly art therapy sessions were found to decrease depression, anxiety and stress levels in breast cancer patients. This improvement was still seen after four months, which could mean potentially lasting effects. 

In a similar study, researchers noted that we do not even have to create art themselves. Patients who observed an artist painting in an outpatient chemotherapy treatment room for eight weeks said they felt more calm and relaxed as it kept their minds occupied.

It increases self-esteem

A study focused on adults living in nursing homes reported that art therapy increased their self-esteem and reduced symptoms of depression. This could mean that incorporating art in social work could help drive innovation in healthcare.