The popularity of adult coloring books has grown rapidly over the past year and the idea that it’s just for kids is fading just as quickly.
Mental health professionals have long utilized art in treating patients because it has a profoundly positive effect on mental well-being. This form of therapy encourages self- exploration and helps in organizing emotions. Although art therapy received from a professional is more effective than coloring on your own; coloring does have several benefits. It has been found that coloring can help adults:
1: De-stress
2: Achieve a state of meditation
3: Reduce anxiety
4: Alleviate less severe symptoms of depression
5: Improve concentration
6: Boost creativity
While coloring can be beneficial; it is important for individuals to note that it is not art therapy and should not be used as a method of self-treatment for mental health disorders. Art therapy differs from coloring because it relies on a patient-therapist relationship. This dynamic is important in helping patients to express their problems to the therapist through art when they are not able to in words.
Creative arts therapy has been an integral part of the Department of Psychiatry at Jamaica Hospital for nearly 20 years. For more information about the program or to schedule an appointment, please call 718-206-5575.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.