'Painting a path to wellness': correlations between participating in a creative activity group and improved measured mental health outcome

Abstract

• Despite the long-standing popularity of creative activity groups with mental health patients, there has been a lack of measurement evidencing a positive relationship between participation in such groups and improved mental health. • This study used de-identified hospital records covering the period 2004-2009 to chart measured mental health outcomes for 403 patients attending a creative activity group in an acute inpatient psychiatric setting. • Four different clinical assessment tools were used to measure changes in mental health from admission to discharge for participants of the creative activity group. • Research findings establish that participation in creative activity positively correlates with improved mental health. • In the context of this research project, the term 'creative activity' includes participation in art, craft or expressive art-based activity.