Joie de vivre

People often ask what the difference is between ‘Arts and Health’ and ‘Arts Therapies’. Arts therapies, as a form of psychotherapy, use art, music, drama or movement to tackle an issue the patient has. Arts and Health is a much broader sphere, spanning the whole range of artforms, and exploring the many ways arts participation and works of art can play a part in the health and well-being of individuals and communities. The common ground is perhaps the therapeutic effect experienced by many people who take part in arts activity, whether they have a particular health issue or not, and whether the activity is led by a registered arts therapist or not. Many people feel that their life is hampered to some degree by frustrations, stress, difficulties in relationships or other issues. Arts interventions can offer ways of exploring thoughts and feelings, find new ways of relating to other people, and even help us to discover abilities we did not know we had. Health and well-being can be enhanced through relaxation, movement and creativity. Existing relationships can be improved, new ones made, and a sense of achievement, pride and ownership can be created by taking part in arts activities.

Social creative activities are arguably the best way to get to know oneself better and make life more enjoyable. If a group of people come together in a relaxed and mutually supportive atmosphere and explore their creativity and new forms of interaction, it can change their lives, and we have experienced this on many occasions. ‘Inspire’ runs projects with people who have dementia and their carers. These demonstrate the therapeutic power of professionally and sensitively led arts activities. Life is difficult for both parties: fraught with worries, darkened by a sense of loss. Once people have got to know each other and the artist-facilitators and start to feel comfortable with their surroundings, they are offered taster arts activities. It soon becomes apparent which artforms appeal most. People engage in their own way, at their own pace.
A combination of poetry and drawing with these groups has proven to be interesting and beneficial in a variety of ways. It has been widely reported that projects like these lead to profound health benefits for the elderly and those with early/middle stages of dementia. These include improved concentration and increased mobility. Through opportunities to express themselves when communication seems difficult, and to spend time with their carer and people with similar health issues in an atmosphere that is positive and enjoyable, patients become happier and able to enjoy a better quality of life that includes positive shared experiences. It is amazing what can happen once trust has developed and people feel inclined to share thoughts and feelings. New forms of expression and new ways of relating to others are found, and surprises and fun ensue. Once you witness this process, you are in no doubt about the power of the arts to change lives for the better.