Anxiety impacts millions of people worldwide. While it can range in severity and symptoms, it can also make you feel like you’re in a constant state of fear. It doesn’t take much for anxious thoughts to take over. Unfortunately, once they do, they can be difficult to overcome on your own. 

Thankfully, there are dozens of different treatments and management techniques used to help with anxiety. From standard talk therapy to EMDR, there’s no shortage of solutions, but you have to be willing to find a treatment method that works for you. 

For some, that includes integrating art into the healing process. 

You don’t necessarily have to be an artist to enjoy the process and the benefits of using your creativity to help with anxiety. 

With that in mind, let’s look at some art-based methods of anxiety treatment, why they work so well, and whether they’re right for you. 

Why Is Art-Based Treatment Effective?

There are several reasons why creating any kind of art can reduce the impact of anxiety. First, it’s a natural stress reducer. Whether you’re drawing, painting, or sculpting, the “art” of creativity can help you relax. Studies have even shown that creating art can boost your dopamine levels, making you feel happier and calmer. 

Second, art gives you a sense of control. Anxiety often threatens to take control away. So, doing something that makes you feel like you’re in the driver’s seat can make a big difference. It will boost your confidence, remind you that you’re in charge of your own destiny, and take away some of anxiety’s power. 

Finally, it can serve as a welcomed distraction. When anxious thoughts enter your mind, they’ll quickly try to take over everything. Sometimes, distracting yourself with healthy, positive things can be just what you need to keep those thoughts from infiltrating your mind. 

Expressing Your Emotions

Art-based methods of anxiety treatment can either be very specific, like art therapy, or just a way to help you manage anxiety on your own. 

If you want to engage in something like drawing, painting, or sculpting on your own, consider it a safe and effective way to express what you’re truly feeling. Anxiety might be occurring because you’re holding onto negative emotions or having trouble expressing your emotions through words. Art gives you an outlet to express your emotions freely. 

Art-Based Therapy

When you attend an art-based therapy session, you’ll still have the creativity to express your emotions through your work. But you might need a little more guidance along the way. Your therapist might ask you to focus on a specific emotion or even a particular place or time. This can help to unlock memories you might have locked away, putting them out into the world through your art. 

Art therapy can also encourage you to practice mindfulness while you create. Mindfulness is the practice of focusing on the present moment. Engaging with yourself in the present while you create something new is a fantastic way to stay grounded and improve your self-connection. When you feel stronger and more confident in yourself, it’s easier to fight back against the negative self-talk often associated with anxiety. 

Creative therapies are wonderful for better understanding your own emotions. They can also help you build resiliency as you move forward. Even if you’ve never picked up a paintbrush before, you can benefit from art-based methods of anxiety treatment. 

You don’t have to go the traditional route when it comes to getting help with anxiety. If you think art therapy might be something you would like to try, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m happy to provide more information on what you can expect and help you set up an appointment.