Benefits of art as therapy
One of the highlights of Dundalk Positive Mental Health Week in recent years has been the art exhibition featuring work by those dealing with mental health issues as well as artists from the wider community.
This year’s exhibition, which runs in the County Museum, Jocelyn Street, will be officially opened by Dundalk FC Manager Stephen Kenny on Wednesday at 12 noon, followed by a discussion on stress and mental well being.
‘ The exhibition allows people to share their experience of mental ill health or emotional distress which they or a loved one have experienced and to harness that experience as they make their recovery,’ says Dennis Pepper of SHINE and Dundalk Positive Mental Health Forum.
‘We want to emphasise the role of art in recovery,’ he continues. ‘ The whole point of the week is that we can achieve recovery through the things we do every day as a hobby, no matter what your passion is, it brings something positive into your life and can boost self-esteem and confidence.’
‘I have seen people improve massively by getting involved in the arts and feel that it’s something so many people can embrace on the road to recovery.’
The exhibition will feature work by those who attend the Ladywell Centre, The Birches, RehabCare, local schools and the general public.
The exhibition runs until Friday.