There are many types of therapy to help you cope with feelings of anxiety, depression, isolation, or stress, which have grown more common in the time of COVID-19. Art therapy is one of the options your counselor may suggest. If you're intrigued by the sound of it, here's a guide to explain what it is and its benefits.

What Is It?

Art therapy is a specialized practice that aids people of all ages and walks of life. It uses the creation of art to help express and process emotion, alleviate stress and anxiety, and improve self-confidence and self-awareness. Art therapy utilizes concepts like symbolism and allows you to communicate without words. It can be beneficial for anyone who faces challenges with their physical or mental health.

What Are Its Benefits?

A significant benefit of art therapy is that it's equally effective for everyone, whether they've had past art experience or not. For most people, it lowers cortisol levels, which is a hormone that signals when someone is stressed. Creating art distracts you from anxious or negative thought patterns, allowing your brain to relax, so it's in a better state to handle stressful situations afterward. It also activates the brain's reward center, boosting serotonin production and circulation to the prefrontal cortex.

Virtually any art form like painting, sculpting, or photography provides benefits, so you can choose the medium you'll enjoy the most. Art therapy is beneficial for cognitive function, too. It can help people who have dementia disorders with communication and memory. Even in more healthy populations, it can strengthen memory, reasoning, and resilience.

Why Is It Especially Important Now?

Art has always helped document historical events, as humans turn to it to express and process their feelings. During the COVID-19 pandemic, people have used art to express support for healthcare staff and communicate heavy emotions while dealing with isolation. With social distancing and quarantine, feelings of stress and frustration are still common in the population, and art therapy can be a crucial part of coping with those emotions. 

If you're interested in art therapy, reach out to Gavia LifeCare Center in Rochester, NY. They offer a variety of counseling treatments, including art therapy, to address stress, anxiety, and depression. Serving residents of Greece, Gates, Spencerport, Chili, Scottsville, Churchville, Albion, Hilton, and Brockport, their licensed and experienced team also provides group, family, and individual counseling. When you call, you'll receive an appointment within 48 hours. Get to know them online, and call (585) 371-6464 to schedule an appointment.