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The Mental Health Benefits Of Social Prescribing The Arts For Students
As the mental health concerns among students continue to rise, it has become increasingly essential for colleges and universities to incorporate innovative solutions to support their wellbeing. One such approach is social prescribing the arts, which has shown promising results in promoting positive mental health outcomes.
In a recent report, Dr. Vivek Murthy’s parting prescription for America emphasized the importance of reducing loneliness and building a sense of community on campuses. This echoes the sentiments of numerous studies suggesting that social connections play a crucial role in mitigating mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. In light of this, some institutions have been developing innovative ways to increase student engagement while promoting these benefits. One such method is providing students with opportunities to engage in arts-related programs, either on or off-campus.
Arts prescribing programs are designed to offer students “prescriptions” that align with their health goals and interests. These programs, which can include attending performances, creating art, or engaging in literary activities, have been shown to have a profound impact on students’ mental wellbeing. In fact, data suggests that arts prescribing programs can lead to increased scores of well-being and reduced feelings of loneliness.
This innovative approach has gained significant traction, with some institutions reporting astonishing 88% attendance engagement rates and a 20% increase in self-reported well-being measurements. These results are nothing short of remarkable, particularly considering the alarming mental health statistics surrounding students today.
It is essential to understand the transformative power that arts experiences hold for individuals. As Dean Joe Behen from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago aptly put it, “Experiencing the arts – both making art ourselves and witnessing works created by others – is transformative. It engages us emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Arts experience elevates empathy, stimulates compassion, and inspires deeper connection to our own selves and to others with whom we share the creative experiences.”
The benefits of social prescribing arts for students are undeniable. In fact, it has been argued that arts and creativity should be considered as essential components of health care, alongside traditional services like exercise and food.
As an integral part of this process, Care Navigators play a critical role in recommending arts activities tailored to an individual’s specific needs. This personalized approach allows for greater accessibility and encourages students to engage in activities that align with their interests.
Stanford University is one such institution that has successfully implemented social prescribing arts programs on campus. In partnership with Art Pharmacy, the university secured over 20 community partners and saw a significant increase in engagement rates. According to Vice President Deborah Cullinan, these results demonstrate the potential for arts prescribing programs to revolutionize mental health support.
As interest continues to grow, it is crucial that institutions prioritize the integration of such innovative approaches into their overall wellness strategies.
