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How crafting can help mental health?



Did you know? March is National Craft Month!

It's the perfect time to unleash your creativity and dive into the world of crafts. Whether you're a pro or a curious newbie, there's something for everyone. Plus, crafting can be a great way to boost your mental well-being!


Crafting can help mental health in a number of ways, including:

  • Reducing stress and anxiety. When we focus on a creative activity, it can help to take our minds off of our worries and troubles. This can lead to a reduction in stress and anxiety levels.

  • Improving mood and self-esteem. Creating something with our own hands can give us a sense of accomplishment and boost our self-esteem. When we see our creations come together, it can also make us feel happy and content.

  • Promoting mindfulness. Crafting requires us to be present in the moment and focus on the task at hand. This can help us to become more mindful and aware of our thoughts and feelings.

  • Providing a sense of community. Crafting can be a social activity, and joining a craft group or class can help us to connect with others who share our interests. This can provide us with a sense of belonging and community, which is important for mental health.

In addition to these general benefits, crafting has also been shown to be helpful for specific mental health conditions. For example, research has shown that crafting can help to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).



Here are some specific examples of how crafting can help mental health:


  • Knitting and crocheting have been shown to be particularly helpful for reducing stress and anxiety. The repetitive motions involved in these activities can be calming and meditative.

  • Drawing and painting can be a helpful way to express emotions and process difficult experiences.

  • Journaling and scrapbooking can help us to reflect on our lives and identify positive experiences and emotions.

  • Building models or making crafts with wood can be a rewarding challenge that can help to boost self-esteem and confidence.

  • Quilting and sewing can be a social activity that can help us to connect with others and build relationships.

  • Paper crafts such as card making can be a fun and creative way to use your imagination. They can also help to improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.

  • Making music can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and promote creativity. Playing an instrument or singing can also be a fun and social activity.


If you are interested in trying crafting to improve your mental health, there are a few things you can do to get started:

  • Choose a craft that you enjoy. The most important thing is to find a craft that you find relaxing and enjoyable. There are many different types of crafts to choose from, so there is sure to be one that is right for you.

  • Start small. Don't feel like you need to start with a complex project. Start with something simple and easy to complete. This will help you to build your confidence and skills.

  • Don't be afraid to experiment. There are no rules when it comes to crafting. Feel free to experiment with different techniques and materials. The most important thing is to have fun and be creative.

  • Join a group. Crafting can be a social activity, and there are many craft groups that you can join. This can be a great way to meet new people and learn from others.

Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process of creating something new!


If you are struggling with a mental health condition, it is important to seek professional help. Crafting can be a helpful supplement to traditional mental health treatment, but it should not be used as a replacement.


 

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Happy Making

Kelly Anne Jordan xx

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