Creative arts good for mental health
According to a research from Australia it was found that participating in the field of arts and entertainment for about 2 hours a week can improve mental health and wellbeing.
The research was a result of data collected from 702 adults on their interest in the field of arts, entertainment, enjoyment, or a hobby. Participants were asked to complete a 15-minute telephone survey about their engagement in the arts, mental wellbeing, age and income.
Arts included a range of creative activities and interests such as painting, reading, photography , music, theatre, sculpture, fashion, and craft. One could be engaged actively, such as in making the art, or a passive, receptive and appreciative role, such as attending a concert.
The survey consisted of asking the participants if they had engaged in any arts in the last 12 months, and if yes, to describe their participation including time spent in the arts. The participants were also asked about their mental health.
The researchers found after analysing the results, that those who had engaged in Arts for the last 12 months for 100 hours or more, which is approximately equivalent of about two hours a week, reported significantly better mental well-being than those with lower levels of engagement. The results prove the effect of the arts on mental health and overall wellbeing.
If only people could spare about 2 hours every week to participate in some form of art or entertainment it would be good not only for mental health and overall wellbeing but in the process also for some self-development.
