Art therapy: the latest way to relax

By Chelsea Girard

Art therapy is allowing cancer patients to relieve stress through creative expression.

The brain has neuroplasticity, allowing the neurons or nerve cells in the brain to compensate for injury and disease through self-healing empowering aspects of the gentle approach of art therapy. This therapy is used to improve emotional state or mental well-being. Art therapy is a recognized form of psychotherapy that enables people to illustrate their inner experience beyond words.

Debbie Anderson, an art therapist from Toronto who volunteers at Metropolitan Hospital, is combining her two passions: art-making and working with groups or individuals facilitating the creative process.

“I observed the anxiety calming effects of simple art making while working with groups of women making art items as fundraisers,” said Anderson. “People feel known and heard because what they create amplifies their voice while in a safe space.”

There are many different art based assessments from pottery and card making to colouring and painting. Art therapists are trained in art, in counselling and therapeutic techniques. Many art therapists have degrees in social work or psychology as well. Art therapy is gaining momentum as the medical community becomes more aware of the link between the mind and body.

Douglas Niell, 67, of Windsor, a prostate cancer survivor, said art therapy at Met Hospital was something he looked forward to everyday during his treatment. He still comes back to visit other cancer patients.

“It kept my mind from wandering and helped me focus on my paintings rather than my illness,” said Niell. “I now come back to see my friend who has cancer, instead of playing chess we share our drawings.”

A 2006 British hospital study by Heather Stuckey and Jeremy Nobel, found that art therapy helped to significantly decrease symptoms of physical and emotional distress during the treatment of cancer patients. This alternative to medication is also helpful among people dealing with  other conditions such as depression, dementia, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Many individuals can find healing using art therapy. There is no art experience necessary. Art In Deed in Windsor and Met Hospital offer private sessions as well at clinical practices for children, adults and seniors ranging from self-expression classes to engage the imagination.