Mental health outcomes of a creative artmaking community-based support group in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era

Abstract

This art-based participatory action research study sought to uncover how creative artmaking enhances young people’s mental well-being in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. A community-based artmaking support group was founded to help create a brave space for young people to talk about mental health. Twelve artmaking sessions were conducted, one every month from August 2022 to July 2023. A facilitator provided general guidance and structure to the artmaking activities; however, participants had some flexibility and autonomy. Each meeting lasted about three hours. In addition to observations, debriefings were conducted at the conclusion of each session where participants discussed their artwork with peers. Participants also reflected on their cumulative twelve-month experience at the conclusion of the initiative. Findings revealed that the support group provided a safe space for young people to self-distract and vent. It was also a platform for emotion-processing and self-expression. Lastly, artmaking propelled the youth to develop positive self-perspectives.