Moving from Depression……….Into Expression

Using Creativity To Beat Depression

One way of combating depression is through creative expression. As part of a holistic approach to putting one’s depression into remission, expression of emotions, through artwork, craft-making, journaling, music and dance, can help to strengthen well-being and keep aspects of depression at bay.

The conundrum, however, is that a depressed person often has an inability to find interest in hobbies/creative expression. The key is getting the proverbial ball rolling. Sometimes, this is the role that anti-depressant medication can play. When a person finds the correct SSRI, for example, it may provide a “window of willingness” to take-up or resume an interest or hobby that attracts the depressed person. It takes dedication and a sincere desire upon the depressed individual to want to “pull-out” of his/her dark world. Motivation can be harder to find than water in the desert. Oftentimes, loved ones or friends can play an important role in this event. Identifying that a friend is suffering from depression and reaching out with concerted assistance can be miraculous intervention. Art therapy is an example of a recognized mechanism for treating folks with some kinds of depression.

“It is based on the belief that the creative process involved in artistic self-expression helps people to resolve conflicts and problems, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior, reduce stress, increase self-esteem and self-awareness, and achieve insight” (http://www.arttherapy.org/about.html)

Because depression is often exacerbated by internal wounds of rejection, trauma, and grief, expression or release of pent -up negative emotions can be very healing. We are very aware of outward surface wounds, for example : a skinned-knee or cut/abrasion. Internal wounds, however, are often overlooked and we do not know how to treat them. Sometimes they lay dormant and reopen when a similar event happens “re-open an old wound”. Other times, the small internal wound festers throughout the years, becoming much more menacing than its original intensity. Either way, expression of emotions through creative works can help EX-press the poisonous negative deposits. As the following definitions imply, (© Random House, Inc. 2006) expression is a purification process:

Expression

6. to press or squeeze out: to express the juice of grapes.

7. to exude or emit (a liquid, odor, etc.), as if under pressure: The onions expressed a pungent perfume.Conversely, a definition of Depressed

2. pressed down, or situated lower than the general surface.

Finding enjoyable activities and engaging in creative positive behavior can significantly influence levels of certain brain chemicals and neuropathway activity. Much research has shown that expression of emotion (both negative & positive) in fun healthy ways, as opposed to stifling (or depressing )emotions can positively impact well-being in a very significant/measurable way!

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