Mental health is an important topic that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, one in four people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives. These issues can be profound, affecting people's ability to function and enjoy life. However, many creative activities, such as paint by numbers, can help people manage their mental health.
Paint by numbers is a popular art form that involves filling pre-printed outlines with numbered paint colours. The result is a colourful painting that can be hung on a wall or given as a gift. While paint by numbers is a fun and relaxing hobby for many people, it can also have therapeutic benefits for those struggling with mental health issues.
In this blog post, we'll explore how paint by numbers can help with mental health, provide examples of how people have used it to manage their mental health, and offer tips and advice for using paint by numbers for mental health.
Prevalence of Mental Health Issues
Mental health issues are common and affect people of all ages and backgrounds. In the Australia, one in five adults experiences mental illness yearly, and suicide is the 10th leading cause of death. Mental health issues can impact all areas of a person's life, including their relationships, work, and overall well-being.
What is Paint by Numbers?
Paint by numbers is an art form that was invented in the 1950s. It involves a printed canvas with pre-drawn outlines, numbered sections, and corresponding paint colours. The goal is to fill in the sections with the matching paint colour to create a complete picture. Paint by numbers kits are widely available online or in craft stores and come in a range of designs and difficulty levels.
How Paint by Numbers Can Improve Mental Health
Paint by numbers can be a relaxing and meditative activity that helps reduce stress and anxiety. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem, which is important for those struggling with mental health issues. Additionally, painting by numbers requires concentration and focus, which can help improve cognitive function and memory.
Studies have shown that engaging in creative activities such as painting, drawing, or colouring can help reduce stress and anxiety. For example, a 2016 study published in the Journal of the American Art Therapy Association found that colouring and creating art can reduce cortisol levels associated with stress.
Creating art can also help regulate the amygdala, the part of the brain that processes emotions. When people engage in creative activities, they can experience a "flow" state, where they become completely absorbed in the activity and lose track of time. This can be a powerful way to distract from negative thoughts or emotions and improve mental well-being.
Examples of How Paint by Numbers Can Help with Mental Health
Many people have found that paint by numbers can help with mental health issues. For example, a woman named Jess used paint by numbers to cope with depression. She found that the painting process helped her focus and provided a sense of accomplishment. "Seeing the colours fill in and the picture come to life gave me a sense of satisfaction that I hadn't felt in a while," she said.
Similarly, a man named David used to paint by numbers to manage his anxiety. "When I feel anxious, I get a racing mind and can't focus on anything. But when I paint, it's like everything else disappears, and I'm just in the moment," he said.
Other people have used paint by numbers to manage symptoms of PTSD, chronic pain, and other mental health issues. For example, a veteran named Michael used paint by numbers to cope with PTSD symptoms. He found that the activity helped him stay calm and focused and provided a healthy outlet for his emotions.
Tips and Advice for Using Paint by Numbers for Mental Health
If you're interested in using paint by numbers to manage your mental health, here are some tips and advice to get started:
- Choose the right kit: Many paint by numbers kits are available online and in craft stores. Look for a design that appeals to you and a difficulty level that matches your skill level.
- Find a quiet space to work: Set up a quiet and comfortable space to work on your paint by numbers. This can be a great opportunity to create a peaceful and relaxing environment for yourself.
- Set realistic goals: Don't put too much pressure on yourself to complete the painting quickly. Take your time and enjoy the process. Break the project down into smaller sections if it helps you stay motivated.
- Take breaks as needed: If you feel frustrated or overwhelmed, take a break and return to the painting later. This can help you avoid burnout and maintain a healthy balance.
Paint by numbers is a fun and accessible way to engage in creative activities that can have therapeutic benefits for those struggling with mental health issues. By providing a relaxing and meditative activity that reduces stress and anxiety and helps boost self-esteem, paint by numbers can be a powerful tool for improving mental well-being. If you want to try paint by numbers for yourself, remember to take it slow, set realistic goals, and enjoy the process. With a little patience and creativity, you can create a beautiful painting and improve your mental health at the same time.