Art is not just pretty to look at, turns out it has positive effects on our mental health. The connection between art, creativity and mental health has been proven to increase life satisfaction, stress relief, positive coping skills and distress tolerance, among other benefits.
You don’t have to be creative or take up a new hobby to reap the rewards of art on mental health. Take advantage of the warm Chicago weather and indoor/outdoor art installments alike this summer. Keep reading to see what cool art exhibits are around you, and how visiting them can improve your mental health. In a pretty city like Chicago, it is easy to see how the city invites residents to enjoy the beauty it has to offer.
The research surrounding art, wellbeing and mental health has flourished in recent years. So much so, there are now evidence-based practices developed around Art Therapy, and professionals are seeking certifications in how art and self-expression can be used in practice to help common mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.
Art, or any form of creative expression, already has amassed vast evidence to back up the claims regarding the positive effects art has on mental health and wellbeing. From reducing stress through decreasing cortisol levels and improving focus through “flow state,” art can also help people be more mindful. Through fostering creativity, we are improving our mental health by developing self-expression, therefore influencing communication skills as well.
Psychology and studies of the brain have helped professionals understand what triggers positive reactions in the brain, such as release of “happy hormones.” Certain colors can evoke peace and happiness, the same way music can cheer us up or certain shapes and patterns can help ease anxiety.
Whether it is performing arts, literature, architecture, music or visual art (such as painting, sculpting and crafting), there is something for everyone to take advantage of the mental health benefits of art.
Fortunately, Chicago is an incredibly artistic, diverse and creative city and an artistic hub, especially in the summer months. The city is bursting at the seams with bountiful forms of creative expression, to appreciate and to partake in. Here is a variety of art-centric activities that you can take advantage of, right here in Chicago.
Can creativity be a cure? Whether you are an artist or an observer, art can have ample benefits that can aid in reducing mental health symptoms. Though it may not be the cure, evidence shows art can be impactful for many people and provide your body and mind with serotonin and mindfulness.
Majorly populated cities like Chicago are promoting art to invite its residents to take care of their mental health, as emotional and mental health are still a very prevalent public health issue in America. If you are still curious to learn more about taking care of your mental health, check out our Chicago-based practice of professionals who can help you today.
