Benefits of art

Research found that making art can:

• activate reward pathways in the brain,
• reduce stress,
• lower anxiety levels,
• improve mood,
• reduce pain,
• improve patient's sense of control over their lives

Making art is a hands-on process that requires total focus, which means it also offers a break from screentime while encouraging self-expression. But art therapy isn't a cure-all and may not be the right approach for everyone. Much of the research draws on the anecdotal experiences of clinicians and patients.