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What is the Evidence on the Role of the Arts in Improving Health and Well-Being? A Scoping Review

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This report from the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe presents findings on the effects of the arts in improving physical and mental health and well-being. In relation to potential applications within the health sector, the arts have been organized into five broad categories: performing arts; visual arts, design and craft; literature; culture; and online, digital and electronic arts. The arts involve the mind and body through aesthetic engagement, imaginary thinking, sensory activation, emotion evocation, and cognitive stimulation, leading to real psychological, physiological, social, and/or behavioral health outcomes. These outcomes can take place in health prevention, promotion, management, and/or treatment, making the arts an essential tool to improve wellness. Countries taking the lead with policies intersecting both the art and health sectors include England, Finland, Ireland, Norway, and Sweden. The arts can help across all conditions, from brain injury to mental illness to cancer, and shape behaviors from mother-infant bonding to speech and language development. The report calls for further support of: art interventions such as community mental health programs; research in the overlap between arts and health; the availability of culturally diverse forms of art; public awareness of the health benefits of arts engagement; humanities education; and training of health-care professionals.

Source: World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe

Illustration of Lauren Dennis-Perelmuter, The Art Box Academy

Lauren Dennis-Perelmuter

FOUNDER & CEO

Lauren has been immersed in the arts for as long as she can remember, earning her B.A. in Fine Art from the University of California, Santa Barbara, her degree in Textile Design from Otis Art Institute of Parsons School of Design and attended the University of Paris, France for immersive Art History Programs held at the renowned Musee D’Orsay Museum.

Lauren is forever grateful to so many who have supported her along the way, encouraging her to create her vision.

Having been given creative platforms and opportunities not only as a young child, but as a professional, Lauren has gained tremendous insight, knowledge and education that developing the creative mind is essential to thrive in today’s ever changing world. 

Lauren knows that every child has magic and talent within. Her mission, along with her extraordinary team, is to create platforms for children to find their own creative amazing selves.