Being creative is a great way to practice self-care and to cope with your mental health, but what exactly does that mean? What does it mean to “be creative” in the first place and how does that positively impact our brains? When most people think of being creative, they usually think of traditional forms of art like painting, sculpting, or drawing. This article is going to challenge that narrow definition and provide examples of other ways to be creative that can positively impact your mental health. This article will also elaborate on the connection between creativity and mental health.

In the 1950s psychology professor and creative expert, Dr. Morris Stein, defined “creative works” as work that is accepted as useful or satisfying by a group at some point in time. This broad definition allows us to include a lot of different activities under the umbrella of being creative. This can open a lot of doors for people when others tell them to “be creative” to cope with everyday life. Keeping the Dr. Stein definition in mind, we can include things like cross stitch, sewing, knitting, coding, doodling, coloring, and even those diamond paintings as ways to be creative. If the idea of painting or drawing something causes you stress because you want it to be perfect, but you enjoy making jewelry, you are still doing something that is creative. This broader definition allows for a wider range of activities that can be done and still be considered creative without adding on extra stress to the individual.

So how exactly does being creative, however you chose to do so, positively impact our mental health? There have been many scientific studies on this very topic. These studies have all found that engaging in creative activities can lead to increased positive emotions, decreased depressive symptoms, reduced stress, decrease anxiety, and increased immune system functioning. If we can spend time on creative goals throughout the day, we are more likely to notice the positive things around us and take advantage of them. Studies suggest that being creative lets you focus on the possibilities, so you are less likely to dwell on the negatives. That all sounds great, but what does it mean?

You know the feeling when you are totally engrossed in a project, where it has your total attention and everything else falls to way side? That is the key. That is how being creative causes a positive impact on your brain. During this time, the critical part of our brain shuts down which can make us feel braver. Our brain waves actually slow down during this state as well and our brains release the feel-good chemicals of serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins. All these things combined can lead to a feeling of joy and happiness, which is the ultimate goal.

If you or someone you know are struggling to cope, you are not alone! To learn other skills and talk to someone who can help, reach out to Family Service of the Chautauqua Region by calling (716)488-1971. You don’t have to struggle alone; we are here to help!