When experiencing symptoms of depression, understanding your thoughts or emotions can be difficult. Having the words to describe how you feel can prove to be an even more challenging task.

Art making can be beneficial tool in treating depression by allowing you to unconsciously express your emotional and physical states. Observing the final product allows you to further reflect on your inner world and identify needs to decrease symptoms of depression.

The efficacy of art therapy on decreasing symptoms of depression has been studied in various populations such as mother’s and their children, men’s experiences, older adults, military, adolescents, and individuals with various diagnoses. The Silver Drawing Test (SDT), Person Picking an Apple from a Tree (PPAT), and Draw A Story (DAS) are art based assessments have been designed to identify symptoms of depression through formal drawing elements. These drawing assessments are often paired with depression assessments such as the Beck Depression Inventory increasing the validity of the scored drawings in association with depression.

In light of the Coronavirus pandemic, many individuals experienced symptoms of depression due to isolation. In honor of Children’s Mental Health Awareness, the Virginia Art Therapy Association hosted a virtual exhibition showcasing children’s unique experience during the pandemic. The exhibition reveals challenges with depression, isolation, and overall mental health through children’s art work and descriptions.

If you want to learn more about how art therapy can benefit you, check out our art therapy page or send us a message!