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Description of initiative
Art is a guarantee of mental health,” said Louise Bourgeois, a major artistic figure of the 20th century. Research over the past 20 years supports her statement, highlighting that engaging in artistic activities generates a wide range of benefits: promoting well-being, quality of life, physical and mental health, and social capital.
The program implemented two years ago offers patients suffering from depression an introduction to art and an opportunity to engage in creative artistic endeavors. Patients referred by the hospital service to MO.CO. participate in artistic practice workshops (visual arts, dance) specifically designed by invited artists, drawing inspiration from the contemporary art center’s programming. Groups of about a dozen participants, led by a professional artist, meet over a period of five weeks.
Themes: Culture and...
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Results, benefits, impact and lessons learnt
Our observations and clinical evaluations highlight a key aspect of artistic practices: their ability to promote eudaimonic well-being, which focuses on personal growth, self-fulfillment, and finding meaning in life. When participants report an improvement in their mood and overall well-being, it may reflect several mechanisms, including:
Self-expression: Creative activities allow individuals to explore and communicate their emotions and thoughts in unique ways, which can help alleviate psychological tension.
Active engagement: Participating in artistic activities requires attention and presence in the moment, which reduces negative thoughts and stress.
Meaning-making: By producing something tangible or symbolic, participants can find meaning in their experiences, reinforcing their sense of personal value.
Another important point is the improvement or fostering of social relationships in people who usually lack them.
These observations align with research showing that artistic activities, such as drawing, music, or writing, contribute not only to improved mood (hedonic well-being) but also to satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment (eudaimonic well-being).