Art therapy may not be right for everyone, but this type of program can reduce stress, help to treat trauma and provide an escape from day-to-day pressures. Don't worry if you live in a small town or out in the country, there are a number of online art therapy services where you can participate from the comfort of your own living room.

What is art therapy?

Art therapy is an umbrella term that includes all sorts of creative therapy, from adult coloring to painting to sculpture. The goals of this type of therapy are both to ease some of the pressure associated with a traumatic event (or even everyday life) as well as give the person an outlet to depict their fears and anxieties without having to verbalize them. All sorts of people can benefit from art therapy, including those with chronic illnesses, those with substance abuse problems, those who have been abused, the aged and those battling cancer.

Benefits of art therapy

1. Make you more self-aware. Creative therapy is very good at tying a person into their sub-conscious and their inner desires, fears, hopes and dreams. While you realize the things that are holding you back, you can begin healing. Painting, drawing, sculpture and other art projects help to start this process.

2. Boost self-esteem. Completing an art project can also boost your self-esteem. Turning a lump of clay or a blank canvas into something lovely or powerful just makes a person feel good.

3. Provide a welcome diversion. Art therapy is also a good way to get your mind off of serious issues in your life, at least for an hour or two.

4. Act as a social connection. For people new to an area, newly divorced or who have just moved into a senior care facility, art therapy can provide a way for you to get to know others with similar interests without awkward mixers or forced settings.

5. Can improve mood. Art and emotions are closely linked. By creating a piece of original art, you can boost your mood. Plus, art therapy is fun and entertaining for people of most any age and skill level.

While art therapy may not be beneficial to everyone with an anxiety disorder or who is suffering after a traumatic event, this type of therapy can boost your self-esteem, provide a welcome diversion from day-to-day life and help you get in touch with your inner self.