An interest in the arts can boost mental health

Posted on January 14, 2016

In a recent study, a team of researchers from The University of Western Australia have found that participating in the arts for just two hours a week can improve mental health and wellbeing.

As little is known about a link between mental health in the general population and the arts for enjoyment, rather than as a therapy, the team of researchers collected data from 702 Western Australian adults on their interest in the arts for entertainment, enjoyment, or a hobby.

In the study the arts included a range of creative activities and interests such as painting, reading, photography, music, theatre, sculpture, fashion, and craft. Engagement in these activities could involve an active role, such as making art, or a receptive role, such as attending a concert.

After analyzing the results, the researchers found that those who within the last 12 months had engaged in the arts for 100 hours or more, the equivalent of two or more hours/week, reported significantly better mental well-being than those with lower levels of engagement.

The results have led the researchers to stress the importance of good mental health and the effects of the arts on this area of wellbeing.

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Category(s):Art Therapy

Source material from Free Malaysia Today