Can Art Ease Symptoms of Schizophrenia and Other Mental Illnesses?
In my experience, I’d say yes, definitely. These new adult coloring books can help relax an anxious and uneasy mind. It keeps one occupied. Drawing, painting, coloring, art crafts, they all help. Maybe is the use of colors and that it makes you feel useful. Also, seeing the finished product can be very satisfying, like ”oh, I made that!” If the person can’t draw or paint, taking a class can be very useful for easing the mind.
Through painting, writing and other art forms, people with schizophrenia and other mental illnesses not only find a positive way to express themselves, they also find relief from their symptoms. Join us as we speak with Robert Lundin and Irene O’Neill, two of the founders of The Awakenings Project, an organization that collects and exhibits works of art created by people with mental illness. They discuss how The Awakenings Project first began, the ways it has grown over the years and how it can be incorporated into a treatment plan. Plus, they share stories about the sense of purpose and pride that many people in The Awakenings Project get from producing original art. As always, our expert guests answer your questions.
