Author Archives: Jenny Weatherall

About Jenny Weatherall

Jenny Weatherall is the co-owner and CEO of Eminent SEO, a design and marketing agency founded in 2009. She has worked in the industry since 2005, when she fell in love with digital marketing… and her now husband and partner, Chris. Together they have 6 children and 3 granddaughters. Jenny has a passion for learning and sharing what she learns. She has researched, written and published hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics, including: SEO, design, marketing, ethics, business management, sustainability, inclusion, behavioral health, wellness and work-life balance.

Art As Therapy

Art as Therapy: Transforming Beliefs and Perspectives

Art can do more than create beautiful images—it has the power to transform how we see ourselves and the world around us. Whether you’re working through challenges, seeking clarity, or simply looking for a way to connect with your inner self, art provides a therapeutic outlet for expression and reflection.

This post will explore how art as therapy can shift beliefs, heal emotional wounds, and inspire personal growth. By tapping into creativity, we unlock new perspectives that empower us to navigate life with greater resilience and self-awareness. Plus, we’ll guide you through a hands-on activity designed to help you explore and process your emotions creatively.

Let’s dive into the transformative journey of art as therapy and discover the potential it holds to heal and inspire.

What is Art as Therapy?

Art as Therapy refers to the process of using creative expression as a tool for personal growth, emotional healing, and self-discovery. Unlike formal Art Therapy, which is a structured practice guided by a licensed therapist, Art as Therapy emphasizes an individual’s journey through creativity, allowing for reflection and transformation at their own pace.

The core idea behind Art as Therapy is that creating art—whether painting, drawing, sculpting, or journaling—can help us process emotions, challenge limiting beliefs, and uncover new perspectives. It’s not about skill or technique but about engaging with the process of creation as a form of mindfulness and self-expression.

Key Differences: Art as Therapy vs. Art Therapy

1. Art as Therapy:

  • A self-directed practice.
  • Focuses on using art as a meditative or reflective tool.
  • No formal therapeutic intervention involved.

2. Art Therapy:

  • Conducted by a licensed professional in a clinical setting.
  • Combines psychological theories with creative expression.
  • Tailored to address specific mental health concerns.

By embracing Art as Therapy, you can use creativity to gain insights into your emotions and experiences while enjoying the freedom to explore your unique artistic journey.

Activity: Transforming Beliefs and Perspectives

Shifting Beliefs Through Art

This activity is designed to help you explore a challenging belief or emotion through art and guide you toward seeing it from a fresh, positive perspective. By using shapes, colors, and lines, you’ll create a visual representation of your inner world and transform it into something empowering and hopeful.

Materials Needed

  • Paper (any size or type)
  • Markers, crayons, or colored pencils
  • Optional: Paints, brushes, or collage materials (magazines, scissors, glue)

Instructions

  1. Set the Scene
    • Find a quiet, comfortable space where you can focus without distractions.
    • Take a few deep breaths and reflect on a challenging belief or feeling that’s been weighing on you (e.g., “I’m not good enough,” or “I feel stuck”).
  2. Create Your Initial Image
    • Think about the belief or feeling you’ve chosen. How does it feel in your body? What shapes, colors, or lines come to mind when you think of it?
    • On your paper, draw or paint a representation of that belief or emotion. Let your instincts guide you—it doesn’t need to look like anything specific.
  3. Transform the Image
    • Now, consider what a positive or freeing perspective might look like. For example, if your initial image feels heavy and dark, imagine lightness, movement, or brightness.
    • Add new elements to your artwork:
      • Use brighter colors or smoother lines.
      • Overlay shapes that represent growth, love, or freedom.
      • Incorporate symbols that resonate with you (e.g., flowers, rays of sunlight, or flowing water).
  4. Reflect
    • Step back and look at your finished piece. How does the transformation make you feel? Write down a few words or phrases about what you see now.
    • Consider how the process of creating art helped you shift your perspective on the belief or emotion you started with.

Tips for Making It Meaningful

  • Don’t worry about how “good” your art looks. Focus on how it makes you feel.
  • Use music or lighting to create a calming atmosphere as you work.
  • After completing the activity, consider journaling about your experience to deepen your insights.

This exercise isn’t just about creating something visually appealing—it’s about connecting with yourself and finding new ways to embrace positivity and growth.

How This Transforming Beliefs and Perspectives Activity Helps

How This Activity Helps

Engaging in the “Transforming Beliefs and Perspectives” activity offers several mental health and emotional benefits. By combining self-reflection with creative expression, this exercise supports a deeper understanding of your inner world and empowers you to shift your mindset in meaningful ways.

1. Encourages Self-Reflection

Taking the time to visualize and represent a challenging belief or emotion helps you identify its root cause and how it manifests in your thoughts and feelings. This process can lead to greater self-awareness, which is a vital step in personal growth and emotional healing.

2. Promotes Creative Problem-Solving

By transforming your artwork, you’re practicing a creative approach to problem-solving. The process of reimagining a difficult belief as something positive fosters mental flexibility and encourages you to see challenges from new perspectives. This skill can translate into real-life situations, helping you find innovative solutions to obstacles.

3. Supports Emotional Release and Reframing of Thoughts

Art is a safe outlet for emotions that might otherwise feel overwhelming. As you create and transform your artwork, you release the negative energy tied to the original belief or emotion. Adding positive elements helps you reframe your thoughts, replacing limiting beliefs with empowering ones.

This activity not only provides a moment of peace and mindfulness but also equips you with the tools to navigate challenges with greater resilience and creativity. It’s a small yet powerful step toward a more positive and balanced mindset.

Art As Therapy

Watch the video below for a step-by-step guide to this activity! Follow along as we walk you through the process of transforming beliefs and perspectives using art.

Get inspired and start your creative journey today!

Additional Resources

Discover more ways creativity can be a powerful ally in healing and recovery. From reflective art journaling prompts and therapeutic coloring pages to inspiring quotes on the transformative power of art, these resources are designed to nurture self-expression and emotional growth. Whether you’re exploring creativity as a way to process emotions, reduce stress, or celebrate progress in your journey, these tools can help you reconnect with yourself and find peace through artistic expression.

  • Quotes on the Healing Power of Art for Recovery: Be inspired by powerful words that highlight how art can transform and heal. Read the quotes here.
  • Using Recovery Coloring Pages To Help Your Recovery: Explore how coloring can be a calming and therapeutic practice in your recovery journey. Download coloring pages here.
  • Art Journaling Prompts for People in Recovery: Dive into reflective prompts designed to help you process emotions and celebrate progress. Get the prompts here.
  • How Creativity Aids in Addiction Recovery: Learn how creative activities like painting, writing, and crafting can foster healing and growth in recovery. Read the article here.

Tap into the power of art to heal, grow, and embrace your recovery journey!

Embrace the Transformative Power of Art

Embrace Transformative Power Art

We’d love to see how you use art to transform your beliefs and perspectives! Share your artwork or experiences in the comments below or on social media using the hashtag #ECHOArtJourney. Your story could inspire someone else to begin their creative healing journey.

Don’t miss out on more resources and activities—subscribe to our newsletter for updates on new tools, guides, and inspiration to support your growth and recovery. Together, let’s explore the power of art to heal and transform!

Healing Your Inner Child in SUD Recovery

Healing the Inner Child in SUD Recovery

The inner child is the part of us that holds the memories, emotions, and experiences from our early years. It represents the most vulnerable and authentic self, often carrying the joys and sorrows of childhood. For many, these early experiences leave behind wounds that continue to influence how we view ourselves and navigate relationships as adults.

During the substance use disorder (SUD) recovery process, reconnecting with this inner child can be transformative. Those struggling with SUD or mental health challenges often find that their pain – and attempts to numb that pain – is rooted in unmet childhood needs or past traumas. By addressing these emotional scars, individuals can begin to understand their triggers, release suppressed feelings, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Healing the inner child is not about blaming the past but embracing it with compassion. This process can rebuild self-esteem, foster self-acceptance, and provide the emotional stability needed for lasting recovery. Whether through inner child therapy, self-reflection, or creative practices, this journey allows individuals to reconnect with themselves on a deeper level, unlocking powerful pathways to healing and growth.

What Is Inner Child Healing?

Inner Child Healing for Recovery Quote

Inner child healing is the process of reconnecting with the younger version of ourselves that resides within. This “inner child” represents the emotions, memories, and experiences we carried through childhood — both positive and negative.

Often, unprocessed emotions and unmet needs from this stage of life manifest as inner child wounds, creating patterns that influence our adult lives. Healing this part of one’s self enables the process of addressing unresolved pain and fostering a more compassionate relationship with the self.

The origins of inner child work are deeply rooted in psychology, with theories stemming from Carl Jung’s concept of the “Divine Child” and John Bradshaw’s pioneering work on family systems and healing childhood trauma.

These frameworks suggest that the inner child serves as a bridge to the subconscious, holding the keys to understanding the root causes of many emotional struggles. In therapy, reconnecting with this part of oneself can help individuals uncover the core issues driving behaviors, thoughts, and feelings.

When inner child wounds remain unhealed, they can lead to self-sabotage, low self-esteem, and difficulties in forming healthy relationships. For instance, a person with unresolved childhood rejection might struggle with trust or fear of abandonment in adulthood.

Therapy techniques for inner child healing encourage individuals to reparent themselves, address these unmet needs, and release past traumas. Through this process, individuals can create a sense of safety and self-acceptance that is vital for personal growth and recovery.

The Connection Between Inner Child Healing and Recovery

Unresolved inner child wounds often lie at the heart of addiction, mental health challenges, and self-destructive behaviors. Experiences like neglect, abandonment, or unmet emotional needs during childhood can create deep-seated pain.

In adulthood, individuals may turn to substances or harmful coping mechanisms to numb these unresolved feelings or fill emotional voids. Understanding this connection sheds light on why inner child healing in recovery is such a powerful tool for lasting change.

For those on the path to recovery, inner child healing offers a chance to break free from these patterns. By addressing the root causes of emotional pain, individuals can develop healthier coping mechanisms, improve their ability to regulate emotions, and strengthen self-awareness. This healing process not only fosters a sense of emotional stability but also helps rebuild self-esteem.

Moreover, inner child work can transform relationships. Unhealed wounds often lead to repeated cycles of distrust, fear, or unhealthy attachments. By engaging in inner child exercises, individuals can identify and release these patterns, allowing them to build healthier connections with loved ones and themselves.

The benefits of healing extend far beyond recovery itself. Healing the inner child empowers individuals to embrace their full potential, creating a foundation of self-compassion and resilience that supports their emotional, psychological, and relational well-being. For those committed to recovery, this journey can be life-changing, offering a path toward self-discovery and growth.

Common Signs of Inner Child Wounds

Unresolved inner child wounds can manifest in adulthood through behaviors and emotional patterns that impact daily life and relationships. Recognizing these signs is a crucial first step toward healing and self-awareness.

Here are some common symptoms that may indicate unhealed inner child trauma. 

  • Fear of Abandonment – Persistent anxiety about being left behind or rejected can stem from childhood experiences of neglect or loss. This fear often leads to overcompensating in relationships, clinging to others, or avoiding emotional intimacy altogether.
  • People-Pleasing Tendencies – Many individuals with inner child wounds struggle to set boundaries and often prioritize other people’s needs over their own. This behavior often arises from a deep-seated need for approval and validation that is often rooted in early experiences of feeling unseen or unworthy.
  • Self-Sabotaging Patterns – Inner child wounds can lead to self-defeating behaviors, such as procrastination, destructive coping mechanisms, or repeatedly choosing unhealthy relationships. These patterns often emerge from unresolved feelings of unworthiness or fear of failure.
  • Difficulty Trusting Others – A lack of trust in relationships, whether personal or professional, may be linked to past experiences of betrayal or inconsistency from caregivers.
  • Low Self-Worth – Negative self-talk, imposter syndrome, and a persistent belief that one is “not good enough” are common hallmarks of unhealed wounds.

Engaging in inner child therapy helps individuals identify and address these signs, paving the way for healthier relationships, self-esteem, and emotional well-being. Recognizing these behaviors isn’t about judgment but about creating space for healing and growth.

Tools and Exercises for Healing the Inner Child

Exercises for Healing your Inner Child

Engaging in intentional practices can help individuals reconnect with their inner child and foster healing. These inner child exercises provide practical tools for addressing emotional wounds and building a stronger, more compassionate relationship with oneself.

Visualization Techniques

Guided visualizations are a powerful way to connect with your inner child. Close your eyes, take deep breaths, and picture a safe space where your younger self feels protected and loved. Imagine comforting your inner child with supportive words, a warm embrace, or simply sitting together. This process can release lingering pain and foster feelings of safety and acceptance.

Letter Writing

Writing a letter to your inner child is a deeply personal exercise. Begin by expressing love and understanding, acknowledging the emotions and experiences they endured. Apologize for any self-criticism or neglect, and offer forgiveness for mistakes, reminding your inner child that they were never at fault. Rereading these letters can bring comfort and reinforce a sense of self-compassion.

Creative Expression

Art, music, and journaling are powerful tools for giving the inner child a voice. Create a drawing or painting that reflects your emotions, write a song that captures your journey, or journal freely about your childhood memories. These forms of expression allow unspoken feelings to surface. This creates a space for healing and release.

Affirmations and Self-Compassion Practices

Use daily affirmations to nurture your inner child, such as “I am worthy of love and care” or “I honor my emotions and experiences.” Pair this with self-compassion exercises like mindful breathing or placing your hand on your heart while offering kind words to yourself.

These exercises and techniques, whether practiced individually or in combination, create opportunities for growth, emotional release, and deeper self-understanding on your path to recovery.

Therapeutic Techniques for Inner Child Healing

Therapeutic approaches can provide powerful tools for connecting with and healing the inner child and addressing emotional wounds that have been carried on for years. These methods guide individuals toward deeper self-awareness and emotional freedom, making them essential for recovery and self-healing.

Inner Child Meditation

Meditation helps quiet the mind and create a safe space to reconnect with your inner child. Begin by choosing your eyes and focusing on your breath. Visualize meeting your younger self in a comforting environment. Speak to them with kindness, validate their feelings, and offer reassurance. This practice not only fosters emotional connection but also allows for the release of pent-up emotions, which is a key aspect of emotional recovery techniques.

Gestalt Therapy Techniques

Role-playing exercises, a hallmark of Gestalt therapy, enable a dialogue between the adult self and the inner child. This technique involves sitting in two chairs, alternating between the perspective of the inner child and the present self. Expressing unmet needs or unresolved pain in this safe format can foster understanding and provide a sense of closure. This process helps integrate past and present selves, which can facilitate the creation of a core cohesive sense of identity.

Somatic Experiencing

Somatic Experiencing for Recovery and Trauma Healing

Emotional trauma often resides in the body. It can manifest as discomfort or physical tension. Somatic experiencing focuses on body-based techniques to release stored trauma. Gentle movements, mindful breathing, and scanning the body for tension can help individuals identify and process the physical sensations tied to inner child wounds. This approach bridges the gap between emotional and physical healing by supporting holistic recovery.

By incorporating these therapeutic techniques, individuals can address both the emotional and physical aspects of inner child healing, paving the way for long-lasting transformation.

Integrating Inner Child Healing into Daily Recovery Practices

Incorporating inner child healing into your daily recovery routine can create a deeper sense of connection and emotional resilience. Practical steps like journaling, mindfulness, and self-reflection can help nurture the relationship with your inner child while promoting recovery and self-healing.

Journaling

Begin with journaling exercises designed to engage your inner child. Dedicate 10 to 15 minutes daily to writing a letter to your younger self. Explore emotions, memories, or moments that surface, and respond with kindness and reassurance. These inner child exercises can help identify unresolved feelings while fostering compassion toward yourself.

Mindfulness Techniques

Mindfulness techniques are another powerful tool. Set aside time each day to practice grounding activities, such as deep breathing or body scans, while imagining your inner child feeling safe and secure. These practices can reinforce feelings of stability and provide space for reflection, promoting emotional recovery techniques that support long-term healing.

You can create a sustainable path for healing and emotional growth. Regularly practicing these techniques not only helps you address past wounds but also builds a foundation for greater self-awareness and resilience in your recovery journey.

Conscious Playfulness

Incorporate playful activities into your daily life. Whether it’s drawing, singing, or enjoying a favorite childhood game, these moments can reawaken joy and creativity and help your inner child feel valued. Pair these activities with affirmations that remind you that healing is a journey and that you are worthy of care and love.

By weaving inner child work into your recovery practices, you create a sustainable path for healing and emotional growth. Regularly practicing these techniques not only helps you address past wounds but also builds a foundation for greater self-awareness and resilience in your recovery journey.

Embrace Your Inner Child for a Healthier Future

Embrace Your Inner Child

Healing your inner child is a vital step in recovery. It offers emotional freedom and a deeper understanding of oneself. By addressing past wounds and incorporating inner child work into daily routines, individuals can pave the way for long-term growth and resilience.

Remember to be patient with yourself and approach the healing process with compassion. If you’re unsure how to begin, reaching out to a therapist or joining a support group can provide the guidance and encouragement you need to start this transformative journey.

 

Sources: 

  1. Jung, C. G. (1999). Jacobi, J. (Ed.). Complex, archetype, symbol in the psychology of C.G. Jung (R. Manheim, Trans.). London: Routledge. pp. 113–114. ISBN 0415209390.
  2. Jung, C. G. (1996). The archetypes and the collective unconscious (2nd ed.). London. p. 162.
  3. Perls, F., Hefferline, R., & Goodman, P. (1951). Gestalt therapy: Excitement and growth in the human personality (New edition). The Gestalt Journal Press. ISBN 0939266245.
  4. Nevis, E. (2000). Introduction. In E. Nevis (Ed.), Gestalt therapy: Perspectives and applications (p. 3). Cambridge, MA: Gestalt Press.
  5. van der Kolk, B. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Penguin. p. 217. ISBN 9781101608302.
  6. Bradshaw, J. (n.d.). Homecoming: Reclaiming and healing your inner child. Retrieved from https://www.johnbradshaw.com/books/homecoming-reclaiming-and-healing-your-inner-child
  7. Bradshaw, J. (n.d.). Bookstore. Retrieved from https://www.johnbradshaw.com/bookstore
  8. Winblad, N. (2018). Effect of Somatic Experiencing resiliency-based trauma treatment training on quality of life and psychological health as potential markers of resilience in treating professionals. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 12(70), 4. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2018.00070
Power of Art for Recovery

Quotes on the Healing Power of Art for Recovery

The potential for creative expression to enhance stress relief, boost mood, and provide a sense of accomplishment is immense, even for the average person. But, as someone who has been active in the recovery community for over two decades, I’ve witnessed (and experienced for myself) some truly amazing healing facilitated through the lens of the arts. That’s why art therapy is so popular – and so effective – for people experiencing substance use disorder.

The practice certainly isn’t new; many cultures consider participation in the arts as a vital component of healing. So, while people in recovery often find communicating their stories difficult, and both stress and underlying mental health issues can exacerbate the anxiety and despair many feel when approaching treatment or recovery, art therapy can be a wonderful solution. Art for recovery is a minimally invasive way to address trauma, explore emotions, calm intrusive thoughts and quiet anxieties, and even begin to reshape your behavior patterns as you begin to reshape your life.

Although I am not an art therapist, I have seen the power of art for therapy at work in my own life, and I continue to create art today. I’d like to reflect on some of my favorite quotes about art therapy and explore how art may be able to help you or your loved one enhance recovery.

Expressive Art Therapy

“Expressive Art Therapy Integrates All of the Arts in a Safe, Non-Judgmental Setting to Facilitate Personal Growth and Healing”

Natalie Rogers was a renowned American psychologist and the daughter of influential humanistic psychologist Carl Rogers. She is considered a pioneer in the field of expressive arts therapy. Her statement emphasizes the ability of art to provide a space for expression that is free from judgment.

Many people who struggle with a substance use disorder also carry the weight of past trauma. Personal growth and healing through art can give you the strength you need to process the past in a healthy manner and see the recovery process through.

Art Expression of the Spirit

“Art Is the Highest Expression of the Human Spirit”

Pablo Picasso is one of the world’s best-known artists, famous for inventing the radical art style known as Cubism and pushing the limits of expression through art. This statement about art reminds us that art is a lofty pursuit, but it is intrinsically interconnected with the human spirit. In the context of recovery, participating in art therapy does not require prior experience in art making; all you’ll need is the willingness to be open to the power of art to transform and heal.

Art Find and Lose Ourselve

“Art Enables Us to Find Ourselves and Lose Ourselves at the Same Time”

Thomas Merton was an American Trappist monk, writer, theologian, and poet known for his contemplative spirituality and works on social justice, nonviolence, and interfaith dialogue. Merton’s quote is a unique insight that highlights art’s ability to be a source for exploration and discovery, as well as an opportunity to become immersed in the spiritual aspect of creation.

If you’re dealing with a substance use disorder, the freedom to delve into the inner recesses of your mind and spirit can lead to insights that will benefit your recovery.

Every Artist

“Every Artist Dips His Brush in His Own Soul and Paints His Own Nature into His Pictures”

Henry Ward Beecher was a 19th-century American clergyman, social reformer, and abolitionist known for his powerful sermons and outspoken advocacy for the abolition of slavery. Like many other quotes about creativity, this quote from Beecher emphasizes the personal aspects of painting and art.

The quote also recognizes that the final art product is often a close reflection of the creator. By reflecting on your artwork, you can gain insights about yourself that can help you begin to heal.

Art Mode of Communications

“Art Is the Most Effective Mode of Communications That Exists”

John Dewey was an American philosopher, psychologist, and educational reformer best known for his work in developing pragmatism and progressive education. Dewey describes art’s ability to communicate without the use of words. This quality is one of the most beneficial aspects of art therapy in that it enables people to engage in the therapeutic practice without needing to find the words to describe their experiences.

Art Washes Away

“Art Washes Away from the Soul the Dust of Everyday Life”

Another quote by Pablo Picasso, this one describes the ability of art to elevate the senses. Many people in the midst of substance use disorder are so focused on surviving within their immediate circumstances that they are unable to see past everyday life. Art can help you remove the trivial, stressful concerns and focus on what’s in your soul.

Art Is a Reflection

“Art Is a Reflection of the Soul”

Art therapy quotes like this one from an unknown author remind us that art often reflects the positive – and negative – attributes of the artist. If you’re someone with a substance use disorder, seeing that you can create something of beauty can be an important reminder of the beauty within you. The creative process can be harnessed by a great art therapist to help reframe your negative thoughts about yourself and your current situation.

Both Try to Master Themselves

“The Painter Tries to Master Color; the Poet Tries to Master Words; Both Try to Master Themselves”

Another anonymous author penned this quote that muses on the potential of art to help with self-knowledge, self-control, and mastery of the self. Whether your artistic tools are paints or words, the focus, inner reflection, and therapeutic aspects provided by creation can help you master the self. This achievement comes after you’ve devoted time and effort to mastering the tools of your artistic trade and is its own reward at the end of the artistic journey.

Art Speaks

“Art Speaks Where Words Are Unable to Explain”

This quote reflects the core of art therapy: creative expression as a powerful language for emotions that words can’t convey. During more formal treatment therapies, people often struggle to verbalize their complex feelings or traumas. Art, however, can become a way to express those emotions visually or physically.

This process allows for deeper healing and understanding of yourself, especially in recovery and mental health treatment.

Art Is Knowing

“Creativity Is Allowing Yourself to Make Mistakes. Art Is Knowing Which Ones to Keep”

This quote, attributed to Scott Adams, highlights the importance of embracing imperfection in the creative process, a key aspect of art therapy. In therapy, we learn that mistakes and flaws are part of growth, and through creating art, we can accept these aspects of ourselves. By recognizing the value in your perceived “mistakes” through art therapy, you can foster self-compassion and personal insight.

Through Art We Can Communicate

“Through Art, We Can Communicate Our Thoughts and Feelings in a Way That Transcends Language”

Art’s ability to transcend language is part of what makes it a powerful tool for art therapy. At times, people engaging in art therapy may not even be aware of how their hand is guided along the canvas, paper, or other medium. Art therapy can communicate more deeply to the subconscious, where it can have a therapeutic effect.

How Art Therapy Can Aid in Recovery

Art therapy is a powerful tool in the recovery process. This is especially true for those facing additional challenges with substance use disorder, such as a history of mental health problems or past trauma.

Exploring Emotions

Through creative expression, you can explore emotions and experiences that may be too difficult to articulate through words alone. In recovery, emotions such as fear, guilt, and shame often surface, and art therapy provides a safe and non-judgmental space to confront these feelings.

Non-Verbal Expression

One powerful tool art therapy leverages is its existence as a non-verbal outlet to express your feelings. Many people struggle to verbalize complex feelings, but this is particularly true where SUD, betrayal, loneliness, depression, anxiety, shame, and other emotions converge. Creating art allows expression without the pressure of finding the right words.

Relaxation

Whether through painting, drawing, or sculpting, the act of creating something can also be therapeutic in itself. Creation can help you release pent-up emotions, offering you a sense of relief and catharsis.

Self-Reflection

Another significant aspect of art therapy is that it encourages self-reflection. The artwork created during therapy sessions often serves as a mirror, reflecting internal struggles, hopes, and fears. As you engage with your art, you can gain insight into your emotional state, which can lead to greater self-awareness and personal growth. This increased understanding can be transformative in a recovery setting, as it can help you identify triggers, process traumas, and rebuild self-esteem.

Accomplishment

Finally, art therapy also fosters a sense of accomplishment. For people who are struggling with recovery, creating something positive can be a critical sign that they are still capable of accomplishing great things.

Tips for Making the Most Out of Art Therapy

As someone who’s participated in art therapy and then gone on to create my own art to see me through my recovery, I’ve rounded up a few tips for making the most out of your art therapy opportunity.

Process over Product

First, anyone who begins art therapy should embrace the process over the product. The goal here isn’t to become the next Picasso. Avoid judging yourself or comparing your artwork to others. Instead, focus on expressing your thoughts and emotions through the art form you choose, whether it’s painting, drawing, or another medium.

Keep an Open Mind

Approach each session with an open mind with few, if any, preconceptions. Art therapy may bring up unexpected feelings or memories, and allowing these emotions to surface naturally is important. The process of making art can lead to insightful revelations, but only when the creator is open to any possibilities that may come along.

Stick with It

As much as you can, try to stay consistent with the process. Just like with any other form of therapy, regular participation in art therapy is key to reaping the full benefits. To maximize the benefits of art therapy, use the session as a conversation starter with your counselor or therapist. Share what inspired your creation, how you felt while making it, and what meaning it holds for you.

Get (More) Creative

Finally, don’t be afraid to explore different artistic mediums. If you are familiar with making paintings, try sculpture. If you’ve been too intimidated to try a particular type of art, give it a shot; maybe you’ll learn something about yourself in the process.

Art Therapy FAQs:

By tapping into self-expression through various forms of art, you can explore your emotions, resolve conflicts, reduce stress, and achieve personal insight. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about art therapy.

What Is Art Therapy?

Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that involves using artistic activities, such as drawing, painting, sculpting, or writing, to help individuals express emotions, thoughts, and experiences that may be difficult to put into words. It is used as a tool for healing, personal growth, and self-discovery.

Who Can Benefit From Art Therapy?

Art therapy can benefit people of all ages, backgrounds, and mental health conditions. It is especially effective for those dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, and other emotional or psychological challenges. You don’t need to have artistic skills to experience the benefits of art therapy.

How Does Art Therapy Help With Mental Health?

Art therapy can provide a safe, nonverbal outlet for expressing emotions and processing difficult experiences. Through creative expression, you can explore feelings, gain new perspectives, and develop coping strategies. It also encourages relaxation, reduces stress, and promotes emotional healing.

Do You Need to Be an Artist to Participate in Art Therapy?

No. You don’t need any artistic experience or talent to participate in art therapy. The focus is on the process of creating rather than the final product. It’s about expressing yourself and finding meaning in the artwork, and not about making something that looks “good.”

Explore Our Art for Recovery Resources

Shop The ECHO Art Cart

The ECHO Foundation firmly believes in the power of art in recovery, and we are proud to host many resources for art in recovery. Explore our Art Corner to learn more about art for recovery and be sure to check out our recovery merchandise shop. All proceeds go back to helping individuals in recovery. Thank you for your support!

 

Resources:

  1. Kelly-Irving, M., & Delpierre, C. (2022). The embodiment dynamic: The link between adverse childhood experiences and physical health in adulthood. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 947264. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.947264
  2. Hughes, K., Bellis, M. A., Hardcastle, K. A., Sethi, D., Butchart, A., Mikton, C., Jones, L., & Dunne, M. P. (2017). The effect of multiple adverse childhood experiences on health: A systematic review and meta-analysis. The Lancet Public Health, 2(8), e356-e366. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2468-2667(17)30118-4
  3. Merrick, M. T., Ford, D. C., Ports, K. A., & Guinn, A. S. (2019). Prevalence of adverse childhood experiences from the 2011-2014 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System in 23 States. JAMA Pediatrics, 173(3), 250-253. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapediatrics.2018.3626

 

Using Recovery Coloring Pages To Help Your Recovery

For many people facing stress, mental health concerns, and even just everyday life, the world can feel perpetually dark. Like a never-ending tunnel, the mind may try to convince you that you are riding a runaway train that fails to find the light at the end. That trapped mind might tell you that the easiest solution is to accept this as your new normal, but deep down, you know that life was never supposed to be this way. Without steps to combat the darkness, many of those stuck in that cycle float through life, never feeling like who they were meant to be.

For those in recovery from substance use disorders without adequate coping skills, this darkness can result in continued use or risk a relapse back into substance use behaviors. Fortunately, life does not have to be lived in overwhelming shadows. With the right support, learning to navigate the difficult emotions, triggers, and stressors that accompany recovery can help create the color and light we need to help pull us from our darkness.

Why Coloring?

At an early age, crayons became tools of expression as we color both inside and outside the lines. From the walls in our homes to the paper at school, wherever we could create color, we tried. For many of us, however, as we age, we forget how powerful those bright and luminant creations were. We often stop creating and put pressure on ourselves to try to fit in, exacerbating troubles and traumas of the past that may have been left untreated.

Helping individuals recover starts by helping them understand that coloring outside the lines is nothing more than an expression of self. It is okay to be different, and recognizing that everyone’s life journey is different starts with the ability to show on the outside what is going on inside. For many in recovery, this starts by revisiting that favorite childhood activity: coloring.

By utilizing coloring pages as a form of art therapy, an individual recovering from substance use disorder can find the colors they were longing for in that darkness. In fact, coloring pages provide a multitude of benefits that go beyond simply practicing art skills.

Coloring Benefits

There are numerous benefits to coloring that can help provide the therapy needed to support recovery from substance use.

These include:

Meditation

When you’re coloring, the mind can become more focused. Many people with substance use disorders suffer from other underlying conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, panic disorders, or even post-traumatic stress disorders. For many with these types of disorders, the mind is searching to be anywhere but in the current moment. The meditative properties of coloring and focusing on its soothing qualities can actually calm the mind and allow it to exist in the moment at hand.

benefits to coloring

Creating Mindfulness

Meditation is a great way to calm the mind in a moment, but mindfulness adds another layer that allows the mind to process thoughts and feelings. Without the ability to create the necessary space for purposeful reflection, the mind can become stuck in a loop that focuses on the negativities and difficulties of the past. This can cause a person to search for ways of breaking the cycle in unhealthy ways, which can make the turn to substances easy. Coloring creates the openness the mind needs to process emotions in the moment rather than continuing to perpetuate them with unsettled thoughts.

Expressing Oneself Freely

Recovery can be a lonely process for many. Distancing yourself from others can create feelings of isolation and limit the way you express yourself. Through intentional thoughts and choices in color patterns, the feelings one experiences internally can be expressed in new and unique ways. They can be kept to yourself or viewed by others who may be able to more easily understand the complicated journey you are on.

Enjoyment

Recovery is a difficult process that is filled with many obstacles and challenges, and it can often feel like a punishment for engaging in an activity you once enjoyed. In addition, you may have given up many things you liked doing during active addiction. That’s why there is such power of entertainment, joy, and playfulness within the recovery process. When you color, childhood memories rediscover their place in the forefront of the mind, where it isn’t just about coloring inside the lines but the joy of creation and expression. This can help to reduce the feelings of stress and anxiety commonly associated with recovery.

Get Started With Coloring Pages

Improved Concentration

With substance use disorders often comes panic and anxiety. These can cause the mind to race and lose focus on the task at hand. Coloring is a low-stress opportunity to regain the focus and concentration needed for other tasks.

Better Sleep

For many people with substance use disorders, including those in recovery, sleep is difficult. Whether it is the result of the aforementioned racing mind, the stress of the potential for relapse, or simply as a side effect of the substance or its withdrawals, sleep can be limited in both quality and quantity. Fortunately, coloring can help calm the mind, which promotes sleep. Much like those who enjoy reading before bed as a way to encourage the brain to rest, those who enjoy coloring may find that it creates an atmosphere conducive to sleep.

Get Started With Coloring Pages

Whether you are taking the recommendation of your mental health and recovery professionals or you want to explore other opportunities to aid in your personal growth throughout recovery, discovering the power of color and creation may be the light to bring you from the darkness. Here are a few ways specific types of coloring pages can help you during the recovery process. Read up so that you can find the one that may be right for you. We even have a few free samples to help start your art therapy journey.

Recovery Themed Coloring Pages

In recent years, we’ve found a number of coloring books tailored to those in recovery. Often filled with positive messages and words of affirmation, the design and style of each page allow artists the opportunity to express themselves while absorbing important messages for the recovery journey. For example, on days when recovery is more difficult, you may choose to incorporate shades of grays and blacks.

On days when finding the light is more necessary, you may turn to the powers of yellows and oranges. No matter what color choices are made, these types of coloring pages allow a dual focus on art therapy and positive thinking. They help you focus your mind on creativity and creation while also taking in the words and making connections with the images. With the help of recovery coloring pages, you may be able to center your thoughts on your recovery journey.

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Recovery Themed Coloring Pages

Sobriety & Recovery Coloring Pages

Like recovery coloring pages, sober coloring pages provide a creative outlet for managing the difficulties associated with substance use. Found in a variety of options from serious to bold to humorous, sober coloring pages can build upon the unique perspectives associated with recovering from substance use disorders. With each color choice or design element, there are opportunities to express what is on your mind, and if you discuss your art with others, you can draw on the support of those around you.

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Sobriety & Recovery Coloring Pages

Mandala Coloring Pages

Mandalas are derived from Buddhism and are designed using a pattern of geometric shapes, often incorporating a circle as a part of the design or in its overall shape. Many people may be familiar with these artistic designs because Buddhist monks famously create them as a way to meditate and bring calm and peace. Often, these elaborate designs are scratched into the sand. However, just like most ideas throughout the world, it has now become a widespread form of art used in various cultures.

Free Download

Mandala Coloring Pages

A notable psychological study has found that mandalas can help reduce anxiety levels. In the study, free-form coloring was compared to mandala coloring over a 20-minute period. It concluded that those who colored mandalas were able to reduce anxiety levels more easily within that time.

Mandalas were the subject of psychological study in the first place due to the amount of anecdotal evidence to that effect. In fact, Carl Jung knew the benefits of mandalas early on and concluded that they are useful in reducing stress and anxiety because the process was rooted in the subconscious. He also believed that coloring allowed individuals to reconnect with basic cognitive abilities. The research shows that coloring mandalas certainly can be a valuable tool in processing the trauma and other forms of distress that are often experienced by those with substance use disorders.

Creating the Colors of Your Life

Substance use disorder can seem like it’s eliminated the best things from your life, including hobbies, connections, and joys. The ability to navigate emotions, traumas, and even interpersonal relationships can become nonexistent as substance use begins to take all the energy you once had for these important aspects of life. Often, putting off facing these challenges for months or years, living in the darkness can feel like it is the only option. Together, the removal of joy and the persistence of the negative impacts of substance use can cause your world to become a gray, shadowed blur. Recreating the colors of your life by using coloring pages can illuminate new ways of thinking, improve focus, reduce stress, and even help create the space you need to truly see your authentic self inside.

Art therapies

Trauma, substance use disorders, and other mental health struggles do not define a person. They are simply difficulties we must address. Art therapies like coloring can allow the expression necessary to create the mind’s freedom. It isn’t about coloring inside or outside the lines, choosing the right colors, or creating a museum piece; it is about the process, the peace it provides, and the ability to speak in colors and express yourself through a universal language.

Whether you choose to start with one of our free coloring pages or decide to explore one of the many coloring books available online, your substance use disorder recovery can benefit from tools as simple as a box of crayons, a pack of colored pencils, or a box of markers. The same tools you used when you discovered how colors can express who you are or when you first started coloring outside the lines can now help you bring back your light and create the colors of your world.

For more information about recovery and resources to help you maintain your recovery journey, ECHO Recovery is here to help. Our recovery community is dedicated to creating awareness and sharing resources to help end the negative influence of harmful substances in so many lives.

Resources:

  1. Bobby, J. (2022, August 15). Mental health benefits of coloring. Mayo Clinic Health System. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/coloring-is-good-for-your-health#:~:text=Coloring%20is%20a%20healthy%20way
  2. Curry, N. A., & Kasser, T. (2005). Can Coloring Mandalas Reduce Anxiety? Art Therapy, 22(2), 81–85. https://doi.org/10.1080/07421656.2005.10129441
  3. ‌Coloring is not just for kids! (n.d.). CHE Behavioral Health Services. Retrieved May 10, 2024, from https://www.cheservices.com/blog/coloring-is-not-just-for-kids#:~:text=He%20stated%2C%20%E2%80%9CColour%20is%20the
  4. Cleveland Clinic. (2022, October 20). Substance Use Disorder (SUD): Symptoms & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16652-drug-addiction-substance-use-disorder-sud
  5. ‌Blume, N. (n.d.). Exploring the Mandala. Asia Society. https://asiasociety.org/exploring-mandala#:~:text=Mandalas%20are%20Buddhist%20devotional%20images
  6. American Art Therapy Association. (2022). About Art Therapy. American Art Therapy Association. https://arttherapy.org/about-art-therapy/
ECHO Recovery Sober Housing Scholarship Update

Important Update: ECHO Sober Housing Scholarship Applications Temporarily Closed

Dear ECHO Recovery Community,

We are reaching out with an important update regarding our Sober Housing Scholarship program. Due to an overwhelming demand and a current lack of sufficient funding, we regret to inform you that our sober housing scholarship applications are temporarily closed.

The journey towards recovery is unique, challenging, and often expensive. The cost of sober housing can be a significant barrier for many individuals in early recovery. Our scholarship program was designed to help eliminate this financial obstacle by providing funds to cover the cost of sober housing. It saddens us to have to pause this vital initiative, but we remain committed to doing everything we can to support those in need.

While our scholarship program is on hold, we encourage all those in need of assistance to explore our other resources. We offer a range of free treatment resources on our website, which can be accessed here. If you’re based in Maryland, you can find additional free resources here.

We are actively seeking government grants and private donations to replenish our scholarship fund and help more people in their recovery journey. Every dollar donated goes directly towards sponsoring those in recovery, helping them secure housing, and meet basic necessities during the initial stages of treatment. If you are able, please consider making a donation today. Your contribution could significantly change someone’s life.

We understand that this news may be disappointing for many, and we share in your disappointment. However, we want to assure you that we are doing everything in our power to reopen the applications as soon as possible. We appreciate your understanding and patience during this time.

Thank you for your continued support of ECHO Recovery and our mission. Together, we can make a difference and continue to support those on the path to recovery.

Best,
The ECHO Recovery Board

Art Journaling to help with Recovery

Art Journaling Prompts for People in Recovery

Every road to recovery is unique. While there are general tools and support systems, nearly everyone can benefit from, finding a therapeutic technique that you truly click with can provide the best benefits for maintaining and thriving in a sober lifestyle.

Self-discovery and self-reflection are two critical aspects of recovery. When a person is struggling with a substance use disorder, they often neglect their true physical, mental, and emotional needs. Who they are becomes defined by the substance. Developing the ability to look internally and reflect on what you find is key to regaining your sense of personhood. In recovery, finding yourself again can be a difficult but rewarding process.

Consider Journaling for Recovery

One useful tool for rediscovering yourself during recovery is the concept of journaling. There is no wrong way to journal, and the most effective way for you to journal can vary depending on your personal style. Some individuals prefer to write in an open format, jotting down their day and experiences. Others like to have specific prompts that get them thinking about life and sobriety.

Another option that is growing in popularity is art journaling. Art journaling for addiction recovery provides an opportunity for you to partake in self-reflection while also tapping into your creative side. If you’re in recovery, art journaling can help you find inspiration and purpose as you move forward on your sober journey.

Art Journaling for Addiction Recovery

Art journaling is one of many forms of art for recovery. Art therapy is an effective tool for helping individuals with substance use disorders explore their feelings without fear of judgment or confrontation. In the early stages of recovery, there are often many emotions that rise to the surface after having been suppressed by drugs or alcohol.

Facing these deep emotions can be overwhelming, especially as recovery is beginning. However, the ability to face and move on from these emotions is key to maintaining recovery long-term. Art journaling provides an opportunity to use creativity to access emotions and begin to understand the root cause of traumas.

So what is an art journal? Also referred to as a visual journal, an art journal functions much like a traditional journal. With traditional journaling, you are writing down your thoughts and feelings. With an art journal, you are expressing yourself through sketches, doodles, drawings, clips of pictures and magazines, and any other way that you can creatively collect your thoughts and feelings.

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Requirements for Art Journaling

Fortunately, you do not need to be a great artist to benefit from participating in art journaling. Just like traditional journaling, this is a practice that is designed to be personal and will be seen only by you and those you wish to share with. There are no right or wrong ways to journal, and there is no worry that your work will be judged or criticized. The purpose of an art journal is to have an emotional outlet that works for you.

For many, putting into words how you’re feeling and what you are experiencing can be too difficult. In that instance, drawing what you are experiencing may provide the outlet needed. As with traditional journaling, though, consistency is key. You’ll want to consider a mode of creativity that makes sense for daily reflection. Larger artistic projects such as sculpting or painting can be therapeutic, but a journal is more of a daily tool that can change with your moods and feelings.

Benefits of Art Journaling for Addiction Recovery

Art journaling can provide numerous benefits for individuals in any stage of addiction recovery. Journaling can be a helpful tool in recovery because it allows people to explore their deepest emotions without fear of judgment or criticism. Journaling can help uncover triggers, which in turn can help people face those triggers to avoid relapse. Journaling also adds a bit of routine to a person’s day, which can help them develop a schedule conducive to sober living.

There are other major benefits of art journaling, and understanding them can help you decide if art journaling may be a good fit for your needs.

Vulnerability

People in recovery often need to slowly tear down walls that took years to build. This is because when a person has a substance use disorder, they tend to isolate themselves from others. Many people don’t want their addiction to be apparent, so they hide their true selves and develop a defense mechanism when people try to get too close. Addiction can also provoke feelings of shame, which further hinders the ability to be authentic and honest.

Art journaling is a safe medium for facing instead of suppressing emotions. This can be beneficial in recovery because suppressing emotions can negatively impact mental, emotional, and physical health. Art journaling presents an opportunity to be authentic with your deepest thoughts and feelings at a pace that is comfortable for you.

Freedom

Expressing yourself through any medium can feel liberating, and this is especially true in recovery. For example, when you vent to a friend about something that is bothering you, you usually feel lighter and have better clarity about the situation. In the same way, art journaling can help you free your emotions at your leisure.

Opening up in recovery can be challenging, which is why art journaling can be so beneficial. This form of therapy allows you to release negative emotions, evaluate your thoughts, understand the problems you are facing, and participate in a creative opportunity that you enjoy.

Self-Reflection

Art journaling is designed to help you uncover long-buried emotions, but it is also designed to help you develop an understanding of yourself. Especially for individuals in recovery, finding yourself again can feel overwhelming. For months, if not years, substance use has defined who you are, but finding yourself again can be facilitated through art journaling. You can rediscover who you are, what you enjoy, and what brings you happiness. This is a vital tool for self-care.

Goals and Intentions

Recovery should be a time when people move on from the behaviors, thought patterns, and destructive activities of the past. For that reason, recovery is about setting goals, large and small, that help keep you motivated and focused on what you want from the process. An art journal is the perfect way to visualize your goals. You can draw positive goals and outcomes you would like to see in your future.

Supplies you might use in Art Journaling Projects

How to Start an Art Journal

When you are considering starting an art journal, it can be beneficial to first think about the way you would normally take notes. Do you like to work with colors or keep it simple? Do you prefer handwriting your notes or using a digital platform? These questions can help you determine what kind of art journal would be best for you. To get started:

Gather Materials

It is helpful to have a dedicated notebook for your sobriety art journal. Since art can demand more than a single piece of paper, use a visual-journal-specific notebook, or consider purchasing thicker paper. You’ll also want to round up your preferred art materials. This can include paint, pens, pencils, crayons, markers, scissors, glue, pencil sharpener, and anything else you might need to create your work. If you would prefer to create digitally, look into platforms and programs that would allow you to easily access your art and keep it organized.

Journal with a Plan and Purpose

Art journaling is a way to release your inner thoughts and feelings without rules and restrictions. However, you may want to consider setting yourself some basic boundaries, especially at first, since getting into this process can feel overwhelming. It is easy to overthink your art journal, essentially putting it on hold before you can even begin.

To help, you may want to make some decisions before you start, such as what medium you prefer, which colors you want to use, and even how large your project will be.

Find a Topic

Specific art journaling ideas aren’t always necessary. Oftentimes, you’ll find inspiration from daily experiences, persistent thoughts, or familiar feelings that you want to express. However, some days, finding a topic can be more of a challenge. On these days, a great list of potential journal prompts can come in handy. Prompts are a great way to ease into the practice of art journaling and could offer a source of inspiration you wouldn’t consider on your own.

Get Creative

Once you have all the materials you need, a prompt or focus, and have set boundaries on how you want to create, you are ready to get creative. There are endless possibilities when it comes to art therapy. Your journal is designed for you, so use it as you need.

Art Journaling Prompts for Addiction Recovery

Art Journaling Prompts for Addiction Recovery

To get you started, we have compiled a list of prompts that have helped others get the most from their art journal. Prompts are a great way to explore topics you might not consider yourself and can be great to have handy on days when inspiration feels lacking.

  • Draw a place you feel safe – Especially for people in recovery, safe places, and people can feel limited. Drawing a place where you feel safe, whether it be real or imaginary, can help in moments of fear or anxiety. Identifying a place that is safe is the best way to improve your ability to get vulnerable with yourself and others.
  • Use colors to express your current emotions – Sometimes, words fall short when you’re trying to express deep or confusing emotional states. As mentioned, too, in early recovery, emotions can be intense and difficult to navigate. Instead of trying to write out what you’re feeling, simply choose a color that you feel best represents that emotion. Your canvas could have one or many colors that represent what is going on at that moment.
  • Where are you today compared to six months or a year ago? – Art journaling can also work as a great tool for self-reflection in the future. You can revisit this prompt, taking note of the control and understanding you may have developed toward your emotions since that point. In this way, journaling can be a marker of your progress.
  • Create a collage that represents your journey – Collages can be a great way to express yourself artistically without stressing about your ability to draw or paint. You can use photographs you already have, print out pictures from the web, or even flip through old magazines to find inspiration. Collages are a great way to create a work that represents where your life is now, as well as create a vision for the future.
  • Create a self-portrait – This is another great prompt that can be revisited throughout your sober journey. You can draw how you see yourself now, how you saw yourself in the past, or how you would like to see yourself in the future. You can choose to be realistic or get creative with your appearance.

Tips for Art Journaling

To get the most out of journaling, it is recommended to make creating in your journal part of your regular routine. Journaling on a regular basis is beneficial for self-reflection and dealing with the various emotional triggers you can face on a daily basis. It also provides an outlet when you need it, whether you’ve had a great day or a difficult one.

We also suggest that you consider keeping your art journal private or being careful about who you choose to share it with. The purpose of an art journal is to allow you to explore difficult, deep emotions and struggles you may face in your healing journey. Even individuals with the best intentions could make a comment that strikes you the wrong way, opening the door for regression when it comes to honesty and vulnerability. Like a diary, an art journal is designed for your eyes only.

You should also consider experimenting with different mediums. Working with different mediums presents a healthy challenge and can prevent feelings of repetition and boredom. You may even discover you have a knack and passion for a certain previously undiscovered medium.

Suggested Reading: Art Journaling Ideas

Creativity Supports Addiction Recovery

Skilled artists and interested beginners alike can find healing and a sense of self through art journaling. While any type of journaling is personal, confidential, and judgment-free, art journaling can be more accessible than written journaling for many people. It also allows people to explore their deepest emotions, navigate triggers, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. See our Art for Recovery resource for more information and support.

If you’re in recovery, consider art journaling as a way to get creative while exploring yourself in your new life, expanding beyond the written word to truly express yourself on a whole different level. The best part? You don’t have to consider yourself artistic to benefit from art journaling. All you need is a willingness to try, a few tools, and a commitment to making it part of your daily routine. Visit our Art Corner to find artists, classes, and more.

How Creativity Aids in Addiction Recovery

How Creativity Aids in Addiction Recovery

As children, we’re shown how to color and paint pictures in ways that show off our creativity. Many people stop drawing or creating art as they get older, and unfortunately, we’re no longer encouraged to use creative expression in our daily lives. However, art can be an effective tool in helping those with substance use disorder (SUD) reach and maintain recovery.

SUD can feel debilitating and can be one of the most challenging situations you’ll ever navigate, but it doesn’t have to continue to negatively impact the rest of your life. Art, in its many forms, can make the experience of recovery more fulfilling and enjoyable. Whether you like to paint, write music, or doodle in your journal, art may be the tool you need to bolster your recovery journey.

ECHO Recovery is a community filled with people who once felt they had no direction. For many of us, artistic expression provided the key we needed to unlock new ways to improve our mental state. Recovery lasts a lifetime, and it can thus be a lengthy journey, but it’s a journey worth taking. Art is just one of the powerful tools you can use to improve your recovery journey and prepare to move forward into a life free from substance use.

Art Therapy and Recovery

Art Therapy and Recovery

Art therapy is a research-backed treatment method often linked to a psychotherapy practice that helps people use creative expression via the visual arts to demonstrate their thoughts, emotions, and more. For those with SUD, art therapy can be a way to freely express their ideas and emotions surrounding both their experiences with SUD as well as any underlying issues that contributed to SUD. In a formal art therapy session, the drawings, paintings, sculptures, or other works produced can be discussed so both client and therapist can develop a better understanding of the issues at hand.

Art can be therapeutic on a less formal basis, as well. The thoughts you’re having can be difficult to say out loud, and you may be unsure how to accurately depict how you’re feeling, but art therapy makes the process easier while still reaching the intended goal. Even if you’re simply creating art solo or as a small group, the healing power of art may be exactly what you need to express your own feelings.

You may be asking, “How does art help addiction?” While SUD is something to be managed rather than cured, using art therapy can help those struggling to refrain from using harmful substances.

Suggested Reading: Benefits of Art Therapy

Addiction Recovery and Creativity

Addiction Recovery and Creativity

Art therapy isn’t designed to make you the next Picasso, but it can help you express yourself and learn more about who you are. In fact, one of the most significant advantages of participating in the creation of art is the ability to illustrate your emotions.

You may feel ashamed that you’re meeting with a nonprofit or a treatment center. You may have experienced isolation from your family that is difficult to discuss. These situations can be hard to put into words, but rather than talk it out and risk giving inaccurate descriptions, you can draw it out. If drawing doesn’t do it for you, you can use paint, sculpture, or even dance to depict your emotions. No matter the feelings, experiences, traumas, or mental state, you have the ability to express them through art.

Art can also help those who feel tied down or unsure of who they are. Many people with SUD experience denial, and many who complete treatment are unsure regarding the work they need to do to maintain recovery. However, art can be reflective of who you are as a person. If you notice your drawings contain imagery of darkness and loneliness, this may help you realize how you feel about yourself. By creating art frequently, you can see the progress in your works as time goes on, and not just in the quality itself.

When you put your art out into the world, your shoulders may feel less heavy. You don’t have to carry your emotions with you forever, and releasing your negative energy through art can help you feel free from it all.

How Can I Be Creative?

How Can I Be Creative?

A profound realization many of us have when utilizing art as therapy is that you can express yourself in many different ways. You’re not limited to pencil and paper. While art therapy typically incorporates visual media like drawing, painting, and sculpture, art can take many forms. If you like to sing or play an instrument, you can compose songs that illustrate how you’re feeling. If you’ve always dreamt of being an actor or actress, you can write your own script and create characters that represent your struggles. Art therapy has no limits.

Here are some ideas to consider if you’re thinking about practicing art therapy:

  • Drawing
  • Painting
  • Sculpting
  • Photography
  • Charcoal
  • Pastels
  • Papier mache
  • Origami
  • Creating music
  • Dancing
  • Acting
  • Mime
  • Writing (journaling, poetry, fiction, etc.)

All art forms have the ability to not only help you express how you feel but help you free yourself from any emotions or experiences tying you down.

Suggested Reading: Is Painting a Form of Healing?

Recovery, Mindfulness, and Distraction

Recovery, Mindfulness, and Distraction

One of the most trying aspects of recovery is the stressors and triggers we experience that may have us wanting to return to substance use. Relapsing occurs when people return to using substances, often to numb themselves from these common stressors and often under the false belief that once the stress has passed, they can return to sobriety. Through art therapy, you can learn new, healthier ways to cope with both stressors and triggers. Art therapy teaches new skills and enables you to focus on a creative, productive task that is both distracting and fulfilling.

Art therapy can be a great way to marry the mindfulness practices often taught during SUD treatment with a focus on a healthy outlet for your feelings. For example, if you have the urge to reduce stress by returning to drinking alcohol, this is where art therapy can become involved. At your next opportunity, you could illustrate how you felt when you wanted to drink, as well as any emotions or concerns you had at that moment.

Whether you want to draw a comic depicting the situation or simply create an art piece that represents your feelings at the time, you are staying focused on the moment and how you feel in the present. Rather than feel conflicted when wanting to turn to a substance, you can instead turn to your preferred art form and express yourself.

Suggested Reading: What Is Mindfulness

Is Distraction Okay?

Is Distraction Okay?

When we say distraction, we are referring to your ability to shift your focus from the urge to use substances to release your energy in another, healthier way. Distraction is not always effective or desirable; for example, distracting yourself with TV every time you’re stressed isn’t productive and can actually impede you from getting work done. However, if you’ve been considering picking up a substance again, turning toward art is healthier, both physically and mentally.

Taking your mind off triggers and stressors isn’t always easy, but it can certainly be effective. In fact, a study from 2010 showed that distraction can be an effective means of coping with difficult circumstances. Rather than focus on the thought of relapsing, you can instead turn to your preferred art form. The distraction keeps you away from harmful substances while furthering your recovery journey with artistic expression.

Connection to an Addiction Recovery Community

Another advantage of art therapy that often gets overlooked is the ability to form bonds with others in situations very similar to your own. Art brings people together, and whatever you choose to create will bring in new connections who can have whatever role you want them to in your recovery. These people aren’t here to judge but can help you interpret what you’ve expressed, share their own artistic works, and more.

There are several other ways art can be beneficial in terms of community and connecting with others.

Suggested Reading: Sober Curious – A Growing Trend

Creating a Safe Space

Creating a Safe Space

Taking the first step in asking for help can be daunting for many. However, when you finally do meet with others who understand what you’re going through, it becomes easier to express yourself and discuss how you feel. Using art can be an effective tool in helping you communicate your feelings without words.

For example, let’s say you had a painful experience during your time using substances. This experience has held you down for years, and it was difficult to get through it and seek help. Others around you may have had similar experiences, but no one will have yours. Still, this can be a great opportunity to share your art with others and discuss it together. Others on the path toward recovery are looking to provide support to their peers, and art therapy can be a tool that prevents those from feeling ashamed of their emotions and experiences.

Group Art Project

Group Art Projects

Many people recovering from SUD are hesitant to work with others out of fear, but the end result of a group art project may be worth it. Taking part in a group project at a treatment center, peer group, or even an informal get-together not only helps you express your own personal feelings but allows you to connect with others in a similar manner. Others who see this art will wonder what the inspiration was, and you can either communicate your thoughts to them or leave it up for people to interpret.

Dedicated Art Therapy

Art therapy sessions with a trained art therapist in your community, whether solo or in a group setting, can be a valuable way to reflect on your SUD, its causes, and your recovery. When a trained individual is there to facilitate the project and the creative process and guide you as you explore what you’ve created, you can once again begin making connections between your emotions, your inner self, and your experiences.

If you’re in a group setting, you, the therapist, and your group members can begin to understand the conflicts or triggers that are leading to your current emotions. Together, you can draw on shared experiences to tackle these issues and suggest ways to resolve them productively.

Creativity for Addiction Recovery?

Unfortunately, many people believe art only serves to entertain, but this is patently untrue. In fact, studies have shown that art as a way to recover from SUD can be incredibly effective. For people with mental health issues and SUD, art can be a critical component of a recovery toolkit. It can also help your mental health professional better understand you and help you navigate toward a brighter future.

Art has existed for millennia, both as an essential form of communication and as a means of creative expression. Today, it can still be found anywhere and everywhere. People with SUD who have previously felt defeated and isolated from the world can reconnect with it once again through art.

For example, consider how the brain can only hold so much information, and it can be difficult to process it all internally. For many people, jotting down a note on paper can not only serve to help them remember the thoughts occurring at any given time, but they may also interpret them differently after viewing it on paper. The same concept applies to art; expressing what’s going on in your brain visually, whether via ink, paint, clay, or something else, allows you to show others your mental state and better understand these emotions yourself.

Find Creativity and Recovery at ECHO

Find Creativity and Recovery at ECHO

Find Creativity and Recovery at ECHO

ECHO Recovery is a nonprofit foundation and education organization intended to provide tools and resources to those struggling with SUD. We are proud to offer a housing program for those who wish to seek recovery and continue our efforts to help people find healing through the power of art.

Our Art Corner can serve as a way for art teachers, art therapists, and people in recovery to find art classes, participate in or organize community events, and even browse art created by people just like you. Art can be used as a healthy tool to both express your inner thoughts and reflect on who you are, so you don’t have to rely on the substances that once harmed you. Use our resources and the power of art as a means of managing this challenging situation and find joy in the process.

Empowering Families: A New Approach to Addiction Recovery

Empowering Families: A New Approach to Addiction Recovery

Empowering families and loved ones helps those dealing with substance use disorders find their own sense of empowerment in recovery. Millions of people nationwide and around the world are dealing with substance use disorders. Substance use negatively affects multiple aspects of a person’s life, including their physical, mental, and emotional health, their finances, and their relationships with others.

There is no doubt that a substance use disorder harms the person who uses substances. However, it also severely impacts their close family and friends. Learning effective ways to protect their health and well-being is essential in doing so. Not only does empowerment help the family, but it can also help their loved ones.

Empowering Family Members Regarding SUD

Loved ones of people dealing with a substance use disorder can often feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and helpless in the face of addiction. While groups like Al-Anon and other 12-step programs reassure family members that they did not cause their loved one’s addiction, nor can they control or cure it, many still face their own struggles even as recovery begins.

Unfortunately, the challenges and mental health issues that families face are less talked about, and families are often expected to find their own support during this difficult time so that they stay safe and protect their own mental and emotional health.

Family members need support so they are better equipped to support their loved ones as they seek treatment and follow through on recovery. While they cannot provide a cure themselves, families can have a significant impact on the recovery process of their loved ones – but this can take its toll. Tips for family members of an addict to find empowerment can help families care for their own health while supporting their loved ones.

Family members need support

Empowering Families for Addiction Recovery

Every family faces unique circumstances when a loved one has a substance use disorder. Some family members have grown accustomed to enabling the behavior of their loved one, others may face unfair accusations, and still others may experience abusive behavior on the part of their loved one. This variety of circumstances can make it hard for families to get the help they need.

Still, while empowerment will look different for each family, the important thing is that family members’ own health and wellness are not forgotten.

Unfortunately, amidst the chaos caused by frequent, persistent substance use, it is far too easy to lose the struggles of family members. In fact, nearly all research about the negative effects of substance use is focused on the individual suffering. While this is extremely important and should not be forgotten, it’s also essential to understand how substance use affects the individual’s closest loved ones.

If you are a family member of someone dealing with substance use, you should:

  • Endeavor to understand more about substance use disorder and the situation you’re facing,
  • Recognize your emotions and your needs, and
  • Determine how to best support yourself and your loved one.
As family members, you play an important part in your loved one’s recovery, but only if you develop essential coping strategies and take care of your own needs during the process.

Educating Yourself About Substance Use Disorders

If someone in your life continues using a substance despite the negative impact it is having on their life, it’s important to educate yourself on substance use disorders. When you research and learn about substance use, you may avoid common misconceptions.

Without a thorough understanding of these disorders, you may make the mistake of believing that substance use disorder is a failing of your family member’s character, that it’s their own choice, or a product of their own stubborn behavior. While the decision to begin using substances is what began the issue, substance use disorder has made simply ceasing the use of the substance physically and mentally impossible for them.

Educating Yourself About Substance Use Disorders

Substance use disorder is no longer a choice that your loved one has made but is instead the result of changes in the brain, often spurred on by trauma or another mental health disorder. Educating yourself about the science behind substance disorders can help you understand how you and your family have been affected, as well. Many families blame each other and are tempted to shame the individual using substances. While it is normal to feel frustrated or even resentful, these feelings can serve to worsen your own situation. Learning about SUD can help you protect your own mental and emotional health.

Look for information from reputable sources like:

  • Books about addiction chemistry in the brain,
  • Online studies about the impact of drugs and substances on the brain, and
  • Trustworthy articles about addiction treatment and recovery.

Connect With Families Like Yours

It’s helpful for many people to connect with peers and other families dealing with similar circumstances. It can be hard living with a friend or family member who is dealing with substance use, and most family members report feeling alone in their struggles. But if you want to help your loved one, you have to take care of your own health first.

Taking time to learn ways to cope with the stress and challenges of living together is key, and family support groups are one way to do that. There are support groups created specifically for families and loved ones of those who use substances. These groups are a supportive and safe place for you and your family to learn about the impact of substance use, the effect it can have on a person, and the effect it may be having on you.

Support groups

Support groups can help you:

  • Learn how to cope with substance use in your family
  • Achieve a better quality of life
  • Understand how to manage and lower conflict with someone who has a substance use disorder
  • Find support in a community
  • Improve your own health and reduce stress
  • Reduce your feelings of isolation and frustration
Programs for family support include:
  • Al-Anon
  • Alateen
  • Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA)
  • Families Anonymous
  • Nar-Anon
  • Parents of Addicted Loved Ones
  • NAMI Family Support Group
  • Grief Recovery After Substance Passing (GRASP)
  • SMART Recovery Family & Friends
  • Family Interventions
These support groups can teach you the necessary skills to take care of yourself, your family, and your loved one dealing with substance use.

Attend Family Therapy

Families and loved ones living together can face several interpersonal difficulties when someone is struggling with substance use. An effective way to deal with these issues and communicate with each other is by attending family therapy. These programs are created to help family members understand each other and work through resentment, anger, distrust, and guilt in a guided and healthier environment. Family therapy can help loved ones understand each other and set essential boundaries.

It’s also been shown that family involvement in treatment and recovery programs can positively impact:

  • The health of each individual family member,
  • Overall family functioning,
  • Relationship satisfaction between family members, and
  • The willingness of family members to change.
Therapy can equip a family to better handle the process of recovery well into the future.

Get Yourself Private Therapy

Substance use disorders in individuals have been shown to have negative emotional and behavioral effects on their families and especially their children. Family therapy is a great way to work through interpersonal family conflicts, and peer support groups can negate some negative effects. However, you and other individual members of your family could benefit from professional counseling or therapy.

If you are frequently caring for your family member, it can be exhausting. Professional help can help you cope with and understand your unique circumstances. Therapy can provide several benefits, including:

  • Having a judgment-free space to talk through your feelings
  • Discovering healthy coping methods
  • Learning what you should and shouldn’t feel responsible for
  • Learning methods to handle your loved one’s destructive habits
  • Providing meditation and mindfulness techniques to handle stress
Not everyone has the time or resources to attend individual therapy, particularly if you have other meetings or therapies to prioritize. However, it’s important to look out for your own well-being during this time.

Allow the Time to Heal

If a loved one with a substance use disorder has received treatment and is beginning the recovery process, the situation can lead to high hopes in the rest of the family. Though this isn’t inherently bad, this hope and the expectation that comes with it is a high standard to reach. Recovery is not a straight road, and change will not happen immediately. It’s important to manage your expectations during the recovery process.

If you expect your loved one to break bad habits and unhealthy behaviors quickly and begin a new and completely different life in recovery, you will likely be disappointed. Relapse is a common part of the recovery journey, and even those who do not relapse will not change overnight. It’s important to build a foundation and work to prevent relapse, but your loved one experiencing a relapse does not mean that recovery is impossible.

Families must find a balance between holding their loved one accountable while respecting them and understanding that mistakes are human. Recovery is a much longer process than many families realize. Perhaps the most important thing to remember about recovery is that it is a lifelong journey, as substance use disorders cannot be cured – however, they can be managed.

Communicate With Each Other

It’s essential to keep open communication between you and the rest of your family. Whether your loved one is actively dependent on substances or is working through the process of treatment and recovery, ensure that communication remains strong between all members of the family. If communication between you and your loved ones is strenuous or impossible, consider other steps, such as family therapy or personal therapy.

Communication ensures that you and your family can express emotions, boundaries, and needs during this difficult process. Be sincere and focus on conversations that encourage progress rather than cycling through negative emotions. Remember that your goal is to be there for each other without sacrificing your own well-being.

Communication

Set Boundaries

Setting boundaries is an essential part of communication and a crucial component of recovery for both you and your loved one. You should set boundaries with your loved ones to let them know what is and what is not acceptable behavior. Ideally, a boundary is not a demand or expectation placed upon the person in recovery but instead a statement that lets them know what your reaction will be if they violate that boundary. For example, instead of telling your loved one that you expect perfection and will be angry if you discover they are drinking again, tell them you will remove your children from their presence while they are drinking.

Never compromise your safety or well-being.

Boundaries should especially address behaviors like:

  • Domestic abuse or violence
  • Endangering children due to risk-taking
  • Financially damaging you and your family
  • Any dangerous and illegal behavior
Determine if these actions cause you and your loved ones harm or jeopardize your safety. If so, you likely want to remove yourself from the situation. Though you may want to provide support for your loved one, you should never compromise your safety to do so.

Partake in Activities

It’s important for a family to engage in fulfilling and enjoyable activities, both as a family and individually. This boosts the mental and emotional health of the entire family and allows everyone to find purpose in life beyond dealing with a substance use disorder.

Family and personal activities that can help recovering families include:

  • Taking hikes
  • Volunteer work
  • Dancing
  • Cooking
  • Baking
  • Painting
  • Yoga
  • Going for a walk
  • Taking photographs
  • Playing with children
  • Listening to music
  • Playing an instrument
  • Gardening
  • Crafting
  • Going to a park
  • Writing
  • Having meals as a family

These activities can provide you with a sense of purpose and enjoyment in life. As a family, these activities allow families to connect each day and can aid the work completed in therapy. These enjoyable activities can help your family feel more united in the face of SUD and other troubles.

Suggested Reading: The Benefits of Art Therapy
Having meals as a family

Advocate on Behalf of Those Struggling

Negative stigma surrounding substance use disorders is incredibly common. Other people in your life may have inaccurate or judgmental views on substance use disorder and the issues associated with it. Just as many family members once did, they may believe it is the fault of the person dealing with the disorder, the fault of you and your family, a minor issue, or even a simple problem to be ignored. Even if they are not making these statements to you or your loved one directly, these assumptions and the resulting stigma can be very harmful.

When you encounter people in your life making insensitive comments or harboring inaccurate beliefs about SUD, you can help by providing the truth and a more accurate portrayal of substance use. You’ve done the research, and you have a lived experience. Conversations with others can not only help your loved one who is struggling but improve your community.

Suggested Reading: How Community Supports Addiction Recovery

Empowering Families During Addiction Recovery

We’re excited to share that our board director, Jim Haggerty, is also the founder of A Time to Heal: Family Interventions. This revolutionary addiction recovery support service focuses on helping the whole family heal together.

They understand the fear and confusion that comes with grappling with a mental health disorder or addiction. That’s why they’re committed to providing individuals and their families with compassionate understanding, resources, and support needed to help them make sustainable progress toward their goals.

Their personalized intervention and family support services include pre-intervention consultations, intervention planning and facilitation, post-treatment support, family counseling sessions, behavioral health and SUD recovery case management, sober companion services, and more.

Their experienced team of addiction intervention specialists works with clinical providers to provide personalized care tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. They empower families to take control of their lives and provide them with the tools they need to recover, with a focus on building strong bonds between family members during times of difficulty.

We’re proud to have Jim Haggerty as part of our team at ECHO Recovery. Contact him to learn more about addiction recovery family support.

Resources :

  1. https://doi.org/10.1080/1556035X.2017.1348281
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3725219/
The Mental Health Benefits of Art Therapy

The Many Benefits of Art Therapy

Art therapy is the therapeutic use of art to improve and enhance a person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It combines the creative process with psychotherapeutic techniques to improve mental health, reduce stress and promote overall wellness. Art therapy is a form of creative expression that allows people to explore their feelings, thoughts, and emotions in a safe and non-judgmental environment.

It’s important to understand that mental health issues can impact our lives in many ways. For example, stress caused by work or family problems can lead to physical health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and headaches. Additionally, mental health issues can cause us to have difficulty functioning in our everyday lives, such as going to school or work.

And these issues can also lead us down a path of negative feelings and thoughts about ourselves, which can lead to depression and anxiety. It’s why it’s important to find ways to manage our mental health issues, like art therapy, and seek professional help whenever necessary to keep us living our best lives.

The Benefits of Art Therapy

The Benefits of Art Therapy

Art therapy has many benefits for mental health, including:

Stress Relief

Art therapy is an effective way to reduce stress and negative emotions. It can help you escape from everyday worries by giving your mind a break from thinking and focusing on your physical sensations while creating art.

Increased Self-Esteem

Art therapy can help build confidence and boost self-esteem by allowing you to explore your creative side and see the results of your efforts.

Improved Communication

Art therapy can help improve communication by providing a non-verbal way to express yourself and connect with others through art.

Coping Skills

Art therapy can help develop coping skills for dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also help you deal with difficult emotions and memories in a healthy way.

Creativity

Art therapy can help unleash your creative side and discover new ways to express yourself.

Reduced Anxiety and Depression

Art therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for anxiety and depression. It can help reduce symptoms such as agitation, anxiety, and rumination for those with these conditions.

Relaxation

Art therapy can be a relaxing experience, especially for people who are stressed out or have trouble sleeping. It can also help you feel more grounded and centered during times of stress.

Improved Mood

Art therapy can improve your mood by providing a sense of satisfaction and pleasure during the creative process.

Increased Energy

Art therapy can increase your energy levels and help you feel more alert and focused by engaging both the body and mind.

Enhanced Self-Awareness

Art therapy can help you become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. It can also help you understand yourself better and gain insight into your strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth. As you can see, this vast list of mental health benefits from art therapy sheds a strong light on why this form of therapy should be used more often. It is an excellent alternative treatment for many mental health issues and can help people cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and much more.

Who Can Enjoy the Benefits of Art Therapy?

Art therapy can be beneficial for anyone who wants to explore their creative side or improve their mental health. It is particularly useful for people who have difficulty communicating verbally, such as children and those with speech impediments. It can also be helpful for people who have experienced trauma or abuse, as it provides a safe and healing environment to express themselves.

Art therapy is also useful for people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, or any other mental health issue. It can help them to explore their feelings and emotions, develop coping skills, and improve their mood. If you are considering art therapy, please consult a mental health professional to see if it is the right treatment for you.

How to Get Started with Art Therapy at Home

How to Get Started with Art Therapy at Home

If you are interested in trying art therapy at home, consider art-as-therapy or therapeutic art. Both are options you can try on your own or, in support of professional therapy, and offer a great way to relieve stress and learn new coping skills.

Here are some art-as-therapy ideas you can try:

Drawing a Picture of a Happy Memory

You are encouraged to reflect on happy moments when life was easier and when you felt more content. This can be a helpful way of reframing your current situation and reminding yourself that things can get better. Sometimes it can be more helpful to draw a picture of this memory to externalize it and make it more concrete. This has the power to shift your focus from the negative aspects of your life and can be very therapeutic.

Painting a Picture of Your Worries

It can be very therapeutic to express your worries and fears through art. This can be a way of releasing them and of understanding them better. By putting your worries down on paper, you can often better see how irrational or exaggerated they may be. This can help you to deal with them in a more rational way.

Making a Collage of Your Hopes and Dreams

This is a way of looking to the future and setting your sights on what you want to achieve. The process of deciding what to include in the collage can be very revealing and can help you to focus on what is truly important. The end product can serve as a reminder of your goals and can be a source of inspiration and motivation.

Performing a Song or Dance

This is a fun way of expressing yourself and can be very cathartic. It can help you to let go of your inhibitions and feel more comfortable in your own skin. It can also be a great way of bonding with others and forming a healthy outlet for your emotions.

Make a Creative List of Things You Are Grateful for

This is a great way of reminding yourself of the good things in your life, even when times are tough. It can help you to focus on what is important and to keep things in perspective. It can also be a source of inspiration and motivation, as you can see how far you have come and what you have to be thankful for.

Leveraging any and all art forms to create something that is uniquely yours can have a profound impact on your mental health and wellbeing. It can be a powerful tool for self-expression and for making positive changes in your life. Art-as-therapy is an approach that is increasingly being recognized and used by mental health professionals as a valuable treatment option with results.

 

What Type of Art Could You Participate in With Art Therapy?

There are many different types of art that you could participate in with art therapy. This includes:

Drawing

Drawing is a simple and easy way to get started with art. You can draw anything that comes to mind, from objects to landscapes to people with the use of pencils, pens, or markers.

Painting

Paining is a form of meditation and release. Brushing various colors onto a canvas can be a very relaxing experience. You can paint landscapes, abstract art, people, or anything that you desire.

Sculpture

Sculpting is a great way to express yourself and create something that can be shared with others. You could sculpt anything from clay, metal, or wood.

Textiles

Textile art is a great way to be creative and experiment with different fabrics and materials. You could make quilts, pillows, wall art, or any other type of textile art.

Collages

A collage is a great way to combine different materials and create something unique. You could use photos, magazines, fabrics, or any other type of material.

Coloring Books

Traditional or adult coloring books are a great way to relax and de-stress. You can color in any design that you like or make your own.

Fabrics

You can make clothing, pillows, quilts, or any other type of fabric art to express yourself.

Photography

Photography is a great way to capture moments and memories in time. You can take photos of anything that you like, from nature to people.

Jewelry

You can create your own jewelry by using beads, wire, and other materials. This is a great way to be creative and make something that is wearable.

Music and Performing Arts

The power of music and performing arts can be very therapeutic due to the emotional connection that it can create. You could participate in singing, playing an instrument, or acting in a play. This is a great way to utilize art as a form of self-expression that can be shared with others and heal at the same time.

These are simply a few examples of the types of art that you could participate in with art therapy. There are many other options available, so be sure to explore and find something that you enjoy.

Can Art Reduce StressCan Art Reduce Stress?

We all know that the mind and body are not separate entities. If you’re physically stressed or in pain, your mental health will also suffer. The reverse is also true. If you are depressed, anxious, or under emotional stress, it will also affect your physical well-being. This is where various types of art can come in as a form of therapy. A recent study has shown the direct impact patients who engage in creative outlets have on their dopamine levels.

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for happiness, pleasure, and motivation. Low levels of dopamine are associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. With this logic, engaging in creative activities can increase your dopamine levels and improve your mood.

Making Art-for-Therapy a Group Activity

Art-for-therapy can also be a great group activity. This is a great way to get to know other people who are interested in art, and it can also be a fun way to share ideas and experiences.

To get started:

  • Find a group of people that you want to do art-for-therapy with. This could be family, friends, coworkers, or anyone else who is interested in expressive art.
  • Decide on a type of art that you want to do together. This could be drawing, painting, sculpting, textiles, collages, music, performance, etc.
  • Get together, pick up your supplies and start creating! Be sure to share your art with each other and discuss the process and what you’re creating.
  • While engaging in your art together, consider opening up about why you’re doing art-for-therapy and what you hope to get out of it. Doing this can help make the experience more beneficial for everyone involved by validating each other’s experiences and feelings. It can also help build a stronger bond with the people doing art-for-therapy with you.
  • Participating in group art-for-therapy truly holds the power to help reduce stress and anxiety in your life. By doing it with others, you can enjoy the benefits of therapeutic art practices while also building stronger relationships with the people around you.

The Benefits of Art Therapy Find All Kinds of Artists

Use Art to Reduce Stress

The next time you feel overwhelmed or stressed, why not turn to art as a form of therapy? As you can see, there are many different types of art that you can try, so find one that sounds interesting to you and get started. This therapeutic self-care tool can be done by anyone, anywhere with just a few basic tools. Sometimes all I need to process my thoughts is a pen and paper.

Knowing that art can help relieve stress and also improve your mental health in other ways as well makes it at least worth trying. Visit our Art Corner and find that art is more than therapeutic, but a hobby or even a marketable skill!

Sources

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  2. Heenan, D. (2006). Art as therapy: an effective way of promoting positive mental health? Disability & Society, 21(2), 179-191. https://doi.org/10.1080/09687590500498143
  3. Lee, J. H. (2021). Effectiveness of group art therapy for mothers of children with disabilities. The Arts in Psychotherapy, 73, 101754. 5. Federica D’Andrea, Victoria Tischler. (2020) “It inspires me and suddenly the ideas come”: exploring the use of cultural venues in mental health care. Arts & Health 0:0, pages 1-17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aip.2020.101754
  4. Zaidel D. W. (2014). Creativity, brain, and art: biological and neurological considerations. Frontiers in human neuroscience, 8, 389. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2014.00389