Art therapy is a unique approach to depression treatment that helps you get in touch with your feelings and use creative expression as an outlet. This type of therapy can be used to identify and change the negative thoughts and emotions that are associated with depression.
“Art therapy for depression is a complementary treatment, not a substitute for more traditional depression treatment,” says Routa Segal, certified creative art therapist, who practices in New York.
“For someone with depression, it can be a way of breaking through some of the barriers that may be blocking psychotherapy. Every time you create art, you are taking a picture in time. Like a snapshot from a dream, it can reveal what you need to know, and it’s yours to keep.”
The Benefits of a Healing Art
“Creative art therapy is a journey of finding out who you are, where you are, what you have, and what you need to get where you want to be in life,” says Segal.
These types of therapy can be a healing force for the body and the mind in part because the creative process helps release brain chemicals that fight depression. Research shows that art therapy can also improve your sense of well-being by reducing depression and anxiety.
Getting Started
Creative therapy is not just for artists or “creative” types; people of all ages and all backgrounds can try it. “Although kids and teens seem to take to art therapy most naturally, anyone can benefit and it has nothing to do with their level of talent,” says Segal. “In fact, some of the most difficult people to work with are professional artists, since they have the hardest time being non-judgmental about their art.”
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This is an extract from the following source. To be used only for spreading awareness about Depression and treatment options available for mental health issues:
Source: everyday HEALTH
Article by: Chris Iliades, MD
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