In today’s fast-paced, high-pressure world, mental health struggles are more prevalent than ever before. With the rise of stress, anxiety, and depression, people are looking for effective solutions. One such solution that has proven effective time and time again is creativity, particularly through engaging in art-related activities. Whether it’s painting, writing, dancing, or playing music, art has the unique power to improve mental health, offering a range of benefits Research shows it is clear that the act of creating can provide not only therapeutic relief but also long-term emotional support.

One of the most widely recognized benefits of engaging in artistic activities is their ability to reduce stress. Research from the American Art Therapy Association (2016) shows that creating art allows individuals to express emotions and reduce anxiety. The repetitive motions of drawing or painting, for instance, can act as a form of meditation, promoting a state of calmness and relaxation. 

Art also provides a healthy outlet for emotional expression. Art, however, goes beyond language, allowing individuals to communicate their innermost thoughts through visual, auditory, or physical mediums.

The act of creating art can also enhance one’s self-esteem and build cognitive resilience. According to Dr. Nancy Wallace, a clinical psychologist and expert in art therapy, “the process of engaging with art and seeing it through to completion can provide individuals with a sense of accomplishment and purpose” (Wallace, 2018). This positive reinforcement can bolster confidence, especially for those who struggle with feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt.

Here are some of the cheap, exciting, and collaborative opportunities Point Pleasant has to offer for high school students:

• PPBHS Art Club: For any students attending PPBHS all grade levels, the Art Club run by our Studio Art teacher Mr. Bauer is the perfect place to explore your art style, relax, and make new friends!
• Music: Something as simple as making a music playlist of your preferred music can improve mood drastically. Whether you’re in need of a calming melody or a mood booster, music can play a big part in your overall mood and provide stress relief, especially with final exams coming up. 
• Tie dye day: What sounds better than getting together with a few friends and making your own colorful clothing! For students looking for an artistic activity where you can get your hands a bit dirty, tie dying is a simple and inexpensive yet fun activity to participate in with your peers!
• Pottery: Many students find a particular love and interest in our 3D Art classes that involve the use of clay and paint, but only have access to it when in class which isn’t always the most relaxing environment. In Point Pleasant and surrounding areas, there are plenty of pottery making and painting classes available. If you’d like to check out some favorites that are fairly close, check out Wish Upon a Jar, Color Me Mine, or Riverside Art Studio.

Engaging in art-related activities is a powerful tool for improving mental health. Whether it’s reducing stress, fostering emotional expression, or building cognitive resilience, the positive effects of creativity on the mind are well-documented and undeniable. In a world where mental health challenges continue to rise, incorporating creative outlets into daily life offers an accessible, effective way to promote healing and well-being.