Ever noticed how time seems to disappear when you’re deep in a painting? That’s not just in your head—it’s your brain entering a flow state. Which is arguably, this juicy intersection between creativity and mental wellbeing. I have a whole article on the psychology of artistic flow state, if you’re interested!
🤍 When you create, your brain releases dopamine—a feel-good neurotransmitter linked to motivation and pleasure.
🤍 Art engages the prefrontal cortex, helping with focus, decision-making, and emotional regulation.
🤍 Studies show that creative activities lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone), meaning making art literally reduces stress.
💡 Takeaway: Making art isn’t just fun—it’s a scientifically proven way to boost mood, reduce stress, and improve overall mental wellbeing.
You’ve probably heard that the left brain is logical and analytical, while the right brain is creative and intuitive. While this idea has been somewhat oversimplified in pop psychology, there is some truth to it.
🤍 Left brain functions: Logical thinking, language, analytical problem-solving, structured processes.
🤍 Right brain functions: Visual and spatial awareness, imagination, emotional expression, pattern recognition.
Creativity isn’t just a “right-brain” function—it actually involves multiple areas of the brain working together. Studies show that when people engage in artistic activities, they experience increased communication between the left and right hemispheres, which enhances problem-solving, emotional processing, and cognitive flexibility (Dietrich, 2004).
💡 Takeaway: The next time you feel creatively blocked, remember—it’s not about being a “right-brained” or “left-brained” person. Creativity is about training your brain to make new connections.
One of the biggest mental health benefits of art is how it brings you into the present moment. When you’re focused on brushstrokes, colour mixing, or the way light hits a subject, your mind isn’t dwelling on past worries or future stress.
🤍 It keeps your hands and mind engaged, making it easier to stay present.
🤍 It shifts focus away from negative thoughts—instead of ruminating, your brain is busy creating.
🤍 It provides a sense of control—even when life feels chaotic, the act of making something is grounding.
💡 Try this: Next time you feel anxious or overwhelmed, grab a sketchbook and draw without overthinking. The goal isn’t to create a masterpiece—it’s just to be in the moment.
As a provisional psychologist, I’ve seen firsthand how creative outlets can help people manage stress, anxiety, and even burnout. Art gives the mind a break from overthinking, allowing emotions to process in a non-verbal way.
🤍 Acts as an emotional release – Sometimes, expressing emotions through art is easier than putting them into words.
🤍 Breaks the cycle of overthinking – Focusing on small creative details helps shift the mind away from repetitive anxious thoughts.
🤍 Gives a sense of achievement – Even finishing a small painting or sketch provides a boost of accomplishment, reinforcing positive feelings.
💡 Takeaway: Art isn’t just about creating something beautiful—it’s a form of self-care.
Want to incorporate creativity into your self-care routine? Here are some simple, low-pressure ways to use art for mental wellbeing.
🤍 Try a no-stress sketchbook – Make a sketchbook that’s just for you—no pressure, no expectations, just free-flowing creativity.
🤍 Use colour to reflect your mood – Feeling calm? Use soft blues and greens. Feeling stuck? Try bold reds and yellows. Let colour be a form of emotional expression.
🤍 Keep a visual journal – Instead of writing in a journal, try expressing your thoughts through sketches, abstract marks, or colour swatches.
🤍 Create to music – Put on your favourite playlist and let your brushstrokes follow the rhythm. This taps into emotion-driven creativity.
🤍 Experiment without judgment – The goal isn’t to create something “good.” Just enjoy the process—it’s about the journey, not the outcome.
🤍 You don’t have to be “good at art” to benefit from it – Art isn’t about perfection—it’s about expression. Even simple doodles or splashes of colour can be therapeutic.
🤍 Making time for creativity is self-care, not a luxury – If you feel guilty taking time to make art, remember: it’s as important as any other form of self-care. Creativity isn’t a waste of time—it’s how we recharge.
🤍 Creativity looks different for everyone – Some people paint, some write, some dance—it all counts. Find what form of creativity feels natural and enjoyable for you.
I love that intersection, where art meets psychology – isn’t it fascinating!
Making art for mental wellbeing isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up for yourself, expressing your emotions, and giving your mind space to breathe. If you want to keep building a creative practice that supports your mental health, here are some tips moving forward:
⏳ schedule creative time, even if it’s just 10 minutes – Small, regular creative sessions are better than waiting for the “perfect time” to make art. Treat it like self-care.
🎨 try different creative outlets – If painting feels too intense, try collage, journaling, or even creative photography. Sometimes switching things up keeps your mind engaged.
😌 embrace the messy process – Not every piece needs to be a masterpiece. Art for mental wellbeing is about the process, not the result.
🫶🏽 connect with a creative community – Sharing your work (even unfinished sketches) with others can provide motivation, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.
🧘🏽♀️ be kind to yourself – Creativity comes in waves. Some days you’ll feel inspired, others you won’t. That’s completely normal—just keep showing up in any way you can.
If you’re in the mood to read more, check out my article on creative flow state and get some tips for ‘getting in the zone’. I also wrote a piece on the benefits of daily sketching – why not start a sketchbook today? If that doesn’t interest you, you can browse my other articles for more artsy goodness. 😊🎨
☼ Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1996). Creativity: Flow and the psychology of discovery and invention. HarperCollins.
☼ Dietrich, A. (2004). The cognitive neuroscience of creativity. Psychonomic Bulletin & Review, 11(6), 1011-1026.
☼ Kaimal, G., Ray, K., & Muniz, J. (2016). Reduction of cortisol levels and participants’ responses following art-making. Art Therapy, 33(2), 74-80.
☼ Zeki, S. (1999). Inner vision: An exploration of art and the brain. Oxford University Press.
☼ How does making art improve mental wellbeing?
☼ What is the connection between creativity and mindfulness?
☼ How does creativity affect different parts of the brain?
☼ How can art help with stress, anxiety, and burnout?
☼ What are some easy ways to incorporate creativity into self-care?
know someone who might enjoy this article?
♡ share the artsy love right here ♡
a space for artists & art collectors ♡
hi, i’m sarah, an australian artist head-over-heels for watercolour & creative practice- it truely is good for your soul.
& this ↑, is my girl alys.
i am completely self-taught in all the mediums i use & i am here to share everything i know with you!
i write about all things creativity, watercolour, gouache, hand-made ceramics, collecting art, & my own artistic process. I have degrees in human psychology & veterinary medicine- so you might find some sporadic related facts in my writing.
sign up for artsy news, exclusive discounts & member-only offers ♡
disc.- the above article may contain affiliate links. that means that at no extra cost to you, I may receive a small commission from the purchases made through these links. I only recommend products I have bought myself, use, and love!
get 30% off your next print order!
no spam, i promise- just exclusive discounts, member-only commission openings & some other artsy bits.
