Four ways creativity can improve mental health

Now that Spring is here and there are fewer darker days, reflecting on the quality of our mental health over this period can lead to positive changes in improving mental health and wellbeing. In November 2024, the Liverpool Lighthouse launched the Creative Café! A space for those looking for an artistic outlet, or a warm, inviting environment to meet likeminded people. Below are some practical ways to incorporate creative practises into the everyday.

Stress Relief

While stress can be a part of everyday life, managing the body’s response when feeling under pressure, means it is possible to take steps in rationalising the mind during stressful moments. The National Library Of Medicine  found that participating in creative activities is linked to improving the mind set of  working adults resulting in more control over stress levels in their daily lives. Practicing a creative activity such as colouring or crochet can be a simplistic and affordable way to focus the mind on one task.

Getting ‘Handy’

Psychologists have found, the brain releases ‘serotonin and endorphins’ while reducing ‘cortisol, the “stress hormone” when doing something practical and creative. Specifically, the motions of using hands ignites the brain’s reward centres  which gives the brain pleasure from participating.

Activities To Try

• Sculpting – Using clay or plasticine to create 3D objects these can vary from decorations to practical items like bowls and vases.

• Origami – Originating in Japan, Origami involves folding paper in specific ways to create 3D objects. These can include animals, plants, shapes or 3D optical illusions.

• Collage – Great for using up old materials and helping recycle, collages can add detail to a photo or drawing. This involves cutting out shapes from old magazines, newspapers, packages or material and combining to make patterns or images.

Improving The Brain

Being creative has been associated with the right side of the brain alongside rhythm, facial recognition and body language whereas the left, problem-solving, communication and memory. For those who typically are not creative, using the arts, activates this area of the brain that isn’t always engaged with.

Socialising Through The Arts

The Liverpool Lighthouse Creative Café offers a variety of food and drink options alongside free Wi-Fi, a warm environment and opportunities to create art throughout the week. Introducing the arts into the day can cultivate new friendships and enjoyable memories while, reducing stress and feelings of isolation. With the winter months ending, we can start to spend more time outside. Getting creative through writing, art or theatre opens doors to find similar individuals and communities to share experiences and bond with.

Creative Café Wellbeing: 9:30-14:30 – Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays

Location: Liverpool Lighthouse, St Domingo Vale, Oakfield Road, Anfield L4 0UF

Utilising these tips can help improve well-being and brain power. Picking up colours, paints, or crafts offers a simple way to calm the mind and cultivate passions.