Art has always been more than just a form of self-expression; it’s a powerful tool that can transform our mental health and wellbeing.

We’ve all been there; having a string of rubbish days, leaving us feeling a bit empty and un-functional as part of the bigger picture. And if you haven’t, you’re one of the lucky ones! Mental Health issues affect 1 in 4 people each year in England [1] and 1 in 6 people report experiencing a common mental health problem (like anxiety and depression) in any given week in England! So whether or not you fall into either category, it’s always a good idea to ensure that you know what to do if you require support.

Mind is national mental health charity that supports people experiencing mental health issues as well as educating and signposting people to services that can help. One of the main areas that Mind focus on is different therapeutic techniques to support mental wellness. This includes things like arts therapies. Lucky for us, Mind have teamed up with Middlesbrough Town Hall and Arc Stockton to deliver some wonderful workshops that incorporate arts into mental health tools.

Mind Teesside (the local version of UK based charity] are running a series of workshops called ‘Arts & Minds’ that promise to support mental health resilience and provide an outlet for creative exploration. There are three main reasons the arts helps with mental wellness, but there are many more reasons to have a go at arts for mental health.

1. Enhanced Happiness through Flow:
   Picture the state of complete absorption in a creative pursuit – that’s the flow, a magical realm where positive emotions flourish and anxiety dwindles. Engaging in repetitive artistic activities like drawing, knitting, or painting goes beyond mere enjoyment; it floods your brain with dopamine, the feel-good chemical that fuels motivation. As you immerse yourself in the artistic process, happiness becomes not just a fleeting moment but a consistent companion.
2. Art as a Therapeutic Outlet:
   The canvas, the page, or the stage becomes a sanctuary where individuals can navigate through trauma and negative emotions. Studies reveal that activities such as painting, drawing, or writing serve as powerful conduits for expressing and managing emotions positively. Artistic endeavors empower people to articulate goals and confront experiences that might otherwise be challenging to put into words, such as facing a diagnosis of cancer. At The Tees, we recognize the potential of art to provide a calming effect on both the mind and body.
3. Boosting Brain Function and Social Connectivity:
   Research underscores that individuals inclined towards creative pursuits exhibit enhanced connectivity between the left and right hemispheres of the brain. This improved cognitive function permeates various aspects of life, leading to a positive impact. Moreover, being part of an artistic community fosters confidence and social skills, offering a platform to build connections and forge new friendships. Our commitment to promoting self-care and wellbeing is encapsulated in our latest venture, Arts and Minds – an arts project designed to explore the transformative power of creativity.

If you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and wellbeing through art, look no further. Arc Stockton, Middlesbrough Town Hall & Mind Teesside recently launched a fantastic new project; Arts and Minds! They are inviting people to join a community where creativity thrives, connections flourish, and the path to holistic wellbeing unfolds. It sounds like an awesome project! Discover more about this exciting initiative here!