The current levels of psychosocial distress in society are significant, as evidenced by the number of prescribed antidepressants and the numbers of working days lost as a result of stress and anxiety. There is a growing body of evidence that active involvement in creative activities provides a wide range of benefits, including the promotion of well-being, quality of life, health and social capital. In the U.K. there are currently a number of projects operating that offer Arts on Prescription for people experiencing mental health problems and social isolation. The purpose of such schemes is not to replace conventional therapies but rather to act as an adjunct, helping people in their recovery through creativity and increasing social engagement. Although the schemes are varied in their approaches and settings, the common theme is that there is a referral process and creative activities take place in the community facilitated by artists rather than therapists. This paper explores whether such schemes can be part of the solution to the current challenge of mental ill-health, and looks at the evidence supporting the value of such schemes which may influence government, funders and healthcare professionals to implement Arts on Prescription more widely.
Aims: This rapid review explores the role of arts activities in promoting the mental wellbeing and resilience of children and young people aged between 11 and 18 years.
Methods:A systematic search of the literature was undertaken across eighteen databases, no date limit was set on publication. Search terms included a range of creative activities: music, dance, singing, drama and visual arts, these were combined with terms linked to aspects of mental health, emotional wellbeing, and resilience. Only studies related to activities that took place within community settings and those related to extracurricular activities based within schools were included.Results: Following application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, 8 papers were included in the review. The interventions used in the studies were diverse and 2 the research was heterogeneous, therefore a narrative synthesis of the results was undertaken. The findings from the studies are considered in terms of the contribution the activities make to building resilience of children and young people. It was found that participating in arts activities can have a positive effect on, self-confidence, self-esteem, relationship building and a sense of belonging, qualities which have been associated with resilience and mental wellbeing.
Conclusions:Although the research evidence is limited there is some support for providing structured group arts activities to help build resilience and contribute to positive mental wellbeing of children and young people.
Although the research evidence is generally weak there is some evidence that using creative activities as part of a health-promoting strategy may be a useful method of increasing knowledge and positive behaviours in children and young people.
Attention has recently been drawn to the contribution of the arts, and of singing in particular, to health and wellbeing. This article describes a qualitative research project which aimed to gain participants' views of taking part in Silver Song Clubs--community-based singing groups for older people. Seventeen individuals aged 60-plus from six clubs were interviewed and a number of benefits were identified. These included: enjoyment; better mental health and wellbeing; increased social interaction; improvements in physical health; cognitive stimulation and learning; and improved memory and recall. It is suggested that such benefits sit well within a model of health relevant to older people themselves. Community nurses working with this age group might consider including an assessment for interest in musical and related activities, and also should be aware of any local initiatives into which individuals can be referred.
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