ANALYZING THE ROLE OF VISUAL ARTS IN PROMOTING MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING.

ANALYZING THE ROLE OF VISUAL ARTS IN PROMOTING MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING.

ABSTRACT

This study focuses on examining the role of visual arts in promoting mental health and well-being. The research methodology employed a descriptive design to gather information about university students’ levels of creativity and their mental health status. The sample consisted of 202 undergraduate students randomly selected from Lagos State University, including 70 males and 132 females. Data collection was carried out using a 20-item questionnaire called the “Creativity and Mental Health Questionnaire” (CMHQ), which comprised three sections: demographic data, creativity level, and mental health information. The instrument was validated by experts in psychometrics, and its reliability was tested using the split-half method, yielding a Cronbach’s Alpha reliability coefficient of 0.60. Data analysis involved the use of percentages, Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation Coefficient, and a t-test at a significance level of 0.05. The findings reveal a significant majority of highly creative individuals among the sampled students, indicating a conducive environment for artistic expression within academic settings. Moreover, a strong positive correlation is observed between visual art creativity levels and mental health outcomes, suggesting the therapeutic benefits of engaging in visual arts activities for mental well-being. Additionally, no statistically significant gender differences are found in visual art creativity levels, highlighting an equal propensity for creative expression regardless of gender. Based on these findings, recommendations are proposed to enhance counseling practices, including the integration of artistic activities into counseling sessions, adoption of gender-inclusive approaches, collaboration for creative initiatives across university departments, and ongoing professional development for counselors in visual arts-based interventions.

 

 

CHAPTER ONE

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Mental health concerns are a growing global issue, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. Mental health is important to personal and emotional well-being to contribute to the community and society. Individuals in good state of mental health are capable of working productively and making contributions to their community (Parekh, 2015). Mental ill-health connotes mental disorders, mental sickness, or mental illness. Mental illnesses are health conditions involving changes in thinking, emotion, or behavior (or a combination of these). Mental illnesses are associated with distress and/or problems of functioning in social, work, or family activities. According to Ahn, Proctor, and Flanagan, (2009), some of the causative factors of mental ill-health include biological, environmental, and psychological factors. The biological factors consist of anything physical that can cause adverse effects on a person’s mental health. These include genetics, prenatal damage, infections, exposure to toxins, brain defects or injuries, chemical imbalances, and substance abuse. Environmental factors include but are not limited to dysfunctional home life, poor parenting, divorce, poor relationships with others, substance abuse, not meeting social expectations, and poverty. Ahn, Proctor, and Flanagan (2009) further opined that Psychological stressors, which can trigger mental illness, are: emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, loss of a significant loved one, neglect, and being unable to relate to others. The psychological characteristics alone determine mental ill-health. It is speculated that abnormal behavior can be explained by a mix of social and psychological factors. In many examples, environmental and psychological triggers complement one another resulting in emotional stress, which in turn activates a mental illness.

The mental imbalance of Nigerian students could also lead to poor academic achievement, bad relationships, bullying, examination malpractices, and a host of other social vices. According to Akinade (2008), anyone who is seen pacing up and down, talking to himself, standing at a point for hours, is moody or looking very sad for a prolonged period, or has sex with a prepubescent girl, or one who is unable to sleep for several days, maybe experiencing mental ill-health. Andy ( 2012 ) stated that persons with mental illness usually exhibit a cluster of symptoms – not just one or two symptoms – that are persistent and interfere with daily life and work.  This listing of warning signs and symptoms of mental illness is to be used as an educational and information tool. They are confused thinking,  prolonged depression (sadness or irritability), feelings of extreme highs and lows, excessive fears, worries and anxieties, social withdrawal, dramatic changes in eating or sleeping habits, strong feelings of anger, delusions or hallucinations, a growing inability to cope with daily problems and activities, suicidal thoughts, denial of obvious problems, numerous unexplained physical ailments and substance abuse. Traditional therapeutic approaches often focus on talk therapy and medication. However, there is a growing interest in exploring alternative and complementary approaches to promote mental well-being. Visual arts, encompassing activities like painting, drawing, sculpture, and photography, have emerged as a promising avenue for mental health support.

Throughout history, humans have used art as a form of self-expression and communication. This broad field encompasses activities like painting, drawing, sculpture, and photography, each offering unique avenues for mental health exploration. Drawing and painting allow individuals to express themselves through line, color, and shape, withdrawing serving as a form of journaling for fleeting thoughts and emotions, while painting provides a more immersive experience for exploring feelings on a larger canvas (Vinci, 1504). Sculpture, using three-dimensional materials, offers a tactile representation of one’s inner world, with the sculpting process itself acting therapeutically through a sense of control and accomplishment as the form emerges (Michelangelo, 1504). Photography, particularly accessible in the digital age, allows for capturing moments, documenting experiences, and expressing perspectives. Examining photographs, personal or from established artists, can evoke memories, spark emotions, and offer new ways of seeing the world (Stieglitz, 1920). The potential benefits of visual arts for mental health are diverse. Studies suggest that art-making activities can reduce stress and anxiety through repetitive motions that promote relaxation and mindfulness (Davis, 2010). Visually representing emotions through art can lead to a better understanding and acceptance of feelings (Lee, 2015). The creative process itself fosters self-awareness as individuals explore their inner experiences and develop a deeper sense of self (Cohen, 2020). Completing an artwork can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem (Rose, 2018). Art therapy, a field utilizing art-making within a therapeutic relationship, has emerged as research continues to explore the positive impact of visual arts on mental health. Art therapists are trained professionals who guide individuals in using art for self-expression, communication, and healing (American Art Therapy Association, 2024). In conclusion, visual arts offer a powerful and accessible means for promoting mental well-being. From simple drawings to complex sculptures, engaging with visual arts allows individuals to express themselves, explore their emotions, and gain a greater sense of self-awareness. As research delves deeper, these creative practices have the potential to become valuable tools for promoting positive mental health outcomes.

Recent research suggests that engaging with visual arts offers various benefits for mental health. These benefits may include stress reduction, improved emotional regulation, enhanced self-awareness, and fostering a sense of accomplishment.

1.2 Problem Statement

The issue of mental health concerns is a pressing one, reaching across all ages and demographics on a global scale. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 1 in 8 people in the world live with a mental disorder, with anxiety and depression being the most common (WHO, 2023). This translates to roughly 970 million individuals globally grappling with mental health challenges. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly exacerbated the situation, leading to a reported 26% and 28% increase in anxiety and major depressive disorders respectively within just a single year (WHO, 2023). These statistics paint a concerning picture, highlighting the urgent need for accessible and effective mental health support systems.

Traditional approaches to mental health treatment, often relying on talk therapy and medication, can be highly effective. However, these interventions may not be readily available or accessible to everyone. Cost remains a significant barrier, with therapy sessions and medications often carrying hefty price tags. Additionally, the availability of qualified mental health professionals can be limited, particularly in rural or underserved communities. This lack of accessibility can create a treatment gap, leaving many individuals struggling with mental health challenges without adequate support. This research aims to address this gap by exploring the potential of visual arts as a complementary approach to promoting mental well-being. By investigating the effectiveness and accessibility of visual arts practices, this study seeks to identify a low-cost, sustainable intervention that can be readily integrated into existing mental health support systems or used independently to empower individuals to manage their mental well-being.

1.3 Research Questions

This study aims to address the following research questions:

• In what ways can engagement with visual arts contribute to positive mental health outcomes?
• Are there specific types of visual arts practices that are more effective for promoting well-being?
• What are the underlying psychological mechanisms through which visual arts impact mental health?

1.4 Research Objectives

The primary objectives of this study are:

• To explore the various ways in which visual arts can promote mental health and well-being.
• To investigate the psychological mechanisms underlying the positive impact of visual arts on mental health.
• To identify specific types of visual arts practices that may be most effective for different mental health challenges.

1.5 Significance of the Study

This research has the potential to make significant contributions to the field of mental health promotion. By providing a deeper understanding of the role of visual arts in improving well-being, this study can inform the development of evidence-based art therapy programs and interventions. Additionally, the findings can encourage integrating visual arts practices into mainstream mental health care and community support initiatives.

1.6 Scope and Limitations

This study will focus on the impact of visual arts on adult mental health. Due to the breadth of visual arts practices, the study will explore common mediums such as painting, drawing, and photography. While the research aims to provide a comprehensive analysis, the limitations include the potential for self-reporting bias and the difficulty in isolating the specific effects of visual arts from other factors influencing mental health

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