Creativity combating mental health
IN Rochdale we have many fine examples of how creativity can help people become more resilient to the challenges presented by poor mental health.
Challenges that appear to be both more prevalent and better recognised in our borough and across the UK.
The Office for National Statistics estimates that one in four of us will have problems with our mental wellbeing at some time.
To be more specific, The Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey reports that nearly half (43.4 per cent) of adults think that they have had a diagnosable mental health condition at some point in their life (35.2pc of men and 51.2pc of women).
A fifth of men (19.5pc) and a third of women (33.7pc) have had diagnoses confirmed by professionals.
In Rochdale 14.5pc of patients aged 18 or over on GP practice registers are recorded as having depression.
This is above the national average of 9.1pc (NHS Quality Outcomes Framework 2016/17).
Poor mental health can impact on every aspect of life, including how we feel, think and communicate as well as on our physical health, our employment chances, our educational attainment, our relationships, lifestyle choices and risk behaviours.
Creativity is increasingly being deployed as therapy for the mind across the whole spectrum of the arts from writing to making music, dancing to painting, gardening to baking, in fact whatever floats the creative boat.
Creative activities as therapy for the mind builds resilience to poor mental health in many ways, including relieving stress - like yoga for the brain.
Even simply observing creativity can decrease psychological stress, such as attending a concert, checking out a museum or reading.
Improving mood - the self-reflection and greater understanding of oneself that comes with being creative can increase control over emotional pain and depression as well as boosting self-confidence and a feeling of wellbeing through achievement.
Cultivating a social life - bonding through common experiences and interests – develops positivity and affirmation, improved social contact and communication with others.
A healthy social life is essential to our wellbeing and resilience.
One of an increasing number of successful examples in Rochdale is SWCT (Stories We Could Tell).
This is a project that is funded by Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale NHS CCG that provides a town centre-based project for young people to develop their resilience to the mental health challenges they face and may face in the future through engaging with their creativity.
To find out more about SWCT visit www.swct. co.uk.