30-Second Blog “Snapshot:”
- Pain can make patients feel isolated or misunderstood, making it harder to express thoughts and feelings.
- The Southwest Spine and Pain Center physicians recognize pain management requires supplemental therapies to address the mental and emotion aspects of pain.
- Below are creative outlet ideas for managing chronic pain symptoms.
Creative activities like dancing, painting, writing, and more can help keep a patient’s mind off their physical pain, while providing a vehicle to express emotional pain. Unfortunately, depression is a common side effect of chronic pain and can consume a person’s livelihood if not addressed immediately. Patients should consider complementary forms of “medicine” (i.e., physiological counseling, art therapy, etc.) to keep their pain under control.
What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a mental health profession that helps individuals cope with mental and emotional difficulties. This unique therapy has been proven effective for those living with pain and can be self-administered or learned by a registered art therapist.
Studies have found art therapy can help with the following:
- Reduce Stress
- Increase Self-Esteem
- Enhance Self-Awareness
- Develop Interpersonal Skills
Try These Creative Outlets!
You don’t have to take a class or be a creative person to do creative things. If you’re experiencing depression, or just need to release some tension, try some of these creative outlets:
Painting or Ceramics- Both can be fun and help you process your feelings. Your artwork and sculptures could depict how you’re feeling and start a much-needed conversation between you and loved ones—it’s up to you how you want to go about your art… Just pick up a paintbrush or pencil and start!
Dancing- Being creative through movement is not just good for your mental wellbeing, but for your physical health too. Getting your heart rate up and sweating it out releases endorphins to reduce stress! Try joining a Zumba class or turning up the music in your living room and having a dance session!
Writing- Creative writing, whether it be poetry, short stories or your own story, can help get your feelings out on paper and allow you to express your thoughts, desires and frustrations. Plus, this could be a great way to open up to family members or a registered psychologist.
The bottom line: You’re not alone! If you’re experiencing depression, tell someone and get the help you need. Talk to the Southwest Spine and Pain Center physicians if you need help coping with your pain.
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With five locations in Utah and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
©Southwest Spine and Pain Center, 2015
©Medical Marketing Solutions, 2015