The connection between creativity and our wellbeing has gained increasing recognition, backed by research that highlights the significant mental and physical health benefits gained from engaging in creative pursuits. As a response to this, Ireland has been using the power of the arts to foster improved public health among its residents.
The arts aren’t just a cultural asset but a vital component of community health. Through a range of innovative programs and initiatives, Ireland is harnessing the power of creative expression to enhance overall wellbeing, particularly for those struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and isolation. It’s focusing on building communities for people struggling with their mental health and to foster a sense of belonging in the communities here.
These supportive networks are designed to help people navigate their mental health challenges with greater resilience. Ultimately, Ireland is demonstrating that creativity isn’t just a form of personal expression but also a powerful, inclusive tool for building stronger, healthier and more resilient communities.
The value of creativity for our health and wellbeing
Numerous studies have shown that engaging in artistic pursuits can lead to reduced levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. The act of creating—whether it’s through painting, writing, music, or dance—serves as a powerful outlet for self-expression and emotional release.
Our creative endeavours also help to foster emotional resilience and mindfulness, enabling individuals to connect more deeply with their feelings and experiences, from picking up a camera and capturing your surroundings to reflecting your experiences of the world through poetry or fibre crafts.
Artistic activities also contribute to our physical wellbeing. Engaging in art can improve physical coordination and mobility, while creative outlets such as dance or drama promote relaxation and stress reduction. This multifaceted approach to health positions creativity as an essential component of a holistic wellbeing strategy, and one that Ireland has invested in considerably in recent years.
Ireland’s strategy for arts and wellbeing
Recognising the profound effect that arts and social connections can have on our mental health, Ireland has initiated several programmes that integrate creativity into public health policies. A significant addition is the Creative Ireland Programme which promotes community wellbeing through the arts, but complementing this effort is the Healthy Ireland Framework which focuses on improvements to health and wellness across the nation, with the arts as a key strategy. This has inspired numerous programmes to pop up via local councils and communities.
For example, the Dear Future Me initiative, developed by Louth County Council provides cross-border support for young people aged 10 to 18 living in Louth and Newry, Mourne and Down, to combat depression, isolation and loneliness in Ireland’s youth population. The programme gives opportunities to young people to socialise and engage in crafts, as well as learn about the local culture and shared heritage, and engage in art therapy for self-awareness and mindfulness.
Back in November 2023, Cork County Council introduced the Arts and Chats Project to combat the issue of social isolation, helping residents discover new interests and meet like minded people. It offers a variety of creative workshops ranging from traditional crafts to visual arts and music, focusing in particular on celebrating local culture and traditions.
Meanwhile, Donegal County Council has organised numerous events across the county already, with activities like storytelling, gardening and cooking, designed to promote personal growth, build confidence and use creativity to inspire a new perspective on the challenges we all face in life.
The You, Me, Creativity social prescribing project in Kerry has been delivered through the four Family Resource Centres across this region in Ireland, with the guiding principle that art is for everyone. The intention was to create a more inclusive community that supports creative expression and self-confidence, which has a positive knock-on effect for the wellbeing of the community.
In Mayo, Family Life Services have continued their commitment to arts-based social prescribing with the Flourish Creative Café and the John Hoban Music Circle. The goal of these initiatives is to promote self-discovery and community through creative hobbies like willow weaving and creative writing. The power of art is celebrated here with a view to helping locals build lasting connections.
Building a healthier future through the arts
Ireland’s commitment to the arts in its public health strategy represents a forward-thinking approach to fostering community wellbeing. The potential societal benefits of widespread engagement in artistic activities become increasingly apparent. The success of these programmes highlights the transformative power of creativity in building stronger, more connected communities. There are various ways to embrace creative hobbies for yourself and enjoy the sense of accomplishment and joy that they bring.
Even small creative acts can have a profound effect, such as journalling for 30 minutes each evening, picking up an instrument and learning a few notes, or joining a local dance class to hone your rhythm. Encouraging individuals to embrace creativity as a vital tool for their personal and communal health means Ireland isn’t just fostering a healthier future but also cultivating a more vibrant and resilient society.