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"The Effects of Art Therapy on Stress and Anxiety in Patients with Chronic Illness" (Art Therapy, 2018)
"Art Therapy for Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review" (Journal of Clinical Psychology, 2019)

 

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Scientific Research and International Recognition

An analysis published on PubMed Central found that artistic interventions significantly improve short-term well-being, particularly among caregivers, by reducing stress and fatigue (PMC).

The World Health Organization, in a 2023 report, highlighted how the arts contribute to well-being, health equity, and the prevention and treatment of both acute and chronic conditions (World Health Organization).

 

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Art Therapy: Functions and Applications

According to the American Art Therapy Association, art therapy is an integrative mental health discipline that uses the creative process to reduce stress and conflict, enhance cognition, self-esteem, emotional resilience, and social skills (Psychiatry).

The Mayo Clinic reports that both creating and simply observing art can increase serotonin levels, improve cerebral blood flow in areas linked to pleasure, foster positive thinking, and cultivate hope (Mayo Clinic Press).

 

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Specific Benefits for Clinical Conditions

In oncology, several studies document tangible benefits: among women undergoing chemotherapy, art therapy has been shown to reduce depression and fatigue.

In cases of grief or trauma, art facilitates emotional processing, resilience, and a sense of empowerment.

 

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Art Applied in Real Clinical Settings

In the United Kingdom, the initiative “Lifting the Clouds” demonstrated that exhibiting artworks in hospital wards generates comfort, calm, and a sense of hope among patients and healthcare staff (The Guardian).

In Switzerland, in Neuchâtel, doctors can “prescribe” free museum visits as a form of art therapy — with promising results in improving mental health, preventing cognitive decline, and encouraging physical activity (AP News).

In Australia, “Hope Sings” — the first virtual choir for cancer patients — fosters expression, social connection, and helps alleviate loneliness and depression (The Courier-Mail).

 

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Cross-Disciplinary Benefits of Art in Care Environments

Art enhances the care experience by creating warmer, more humanized environments and encouraging greater engagement among patients and caregivers.

 

 

DimensionDocumented

BenefitsWell-beingmproved mood, greater positivity

Physical HealthStabilization of vital signs, pain reduction

Mental HealthDecrease in stress, anxiety, and depression

ResilienceStrengthened self-esteem, emotional expression, and adaptive capacity