Page 22 - APAP - Inside Arts - Summer 2020

This article outlines what many of us in the field already know: The arts are inextricably linked to people’s mental health and well- being. This article goes beyond the anecdotal and demonstrates the connection through in-depth research. As we face the current Covid-19 crisis, people will need support for their mental health and well-being more than ever.
I hope that with this, research arts organizations will receive the recognition of their critical role in our society.
SARAH FRANKLAND HEAD OF ARTS
BRITISH COUNCIL
IT MAKES SENSE
How arts can help improve your mental health
BY DORIEN EISING/ MENTAL HEALTH FOUNDATION
We are facing huge public health challenges in the UK. Mental ill health accounts for more than 20 percent of these challenges, more than cancer and cardiovascular disease.
As the number of people with long-term conditions increases and with an ageing population who may experience high levels of physical inactivity and social isolation, innovative and effective treatments are needed, more than ever!
The arts seem to have an important role to play in this—through offering help, promoting well-being and creating a space for social connection.
We’ve looked at the added value of the arts and how they can keep us happy and in good mental health.
BEING ENGAGED IN THE ART
Do you recognize a feeling of joy
that you can get when taking part
in cultural activities such as music, museums, dance groups and theatre?
Getting involved with the arts can have powerful and lasting effects on health. It can help to protect against a range of mental health conditions, help manage mental ill health and support recovery.
THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO ENGAGE IN ARTS AND IMPROVE YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
Art and health programs led by artists and musicians can deliver health benefits through participatory arts programs and arts engagement in everyday life.
When we talk about the arts, we include visual and performing arts, such as traditional craft, sculpture, digital art, text, dance, film, literature, music, singing, gardening and the culinary arts.
20 INSIDE ARTS SUMMER 2020
SCREEN SHOT FROM APAP MEMBERS' CREATIVE RESPONSES TO COVID-19 ON YOUTUBE: #EVIDENCECHALLENGE EKABO V2 BY EVIDENCE, A DANCE COMPANY