Creative therapies as support in the treatment of depression

There are various ways to support the emotional recovery process in people experiencing depression. Beyond medication and traditional psychotherapy, some methods based on artistic expression have proven useful, especially when symptoms are moderate. These nonverbal resources, such as visual creation or musical interaction, allow for safe and transformative exploration of the inner world.

Creating to understand: the role of art in the emotional process

Intervention through art is not based on talent, but on using the creative act as a means to get to know oneself better. Drawing, sculpting, painting, or working with collage becomes a tool for expressing emotions that often cannot be verbalized.

Guided by professionals trained in psychology and art, this process allows patients to address feelings such as sadness, frustration, or guilt from a new perspective.

This type of work is usually facilitated in individual or group sessions and can be especially useful for young people who do not feel comfortable talking openly about their discomfort.

Artistic creation offers a judgment-free space that encourages introspection and the rebuilding of self-esteem. In addition, it can be incorporated as a complement to other modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Studies in different contexts have linked this practice to decreased anxiety levels, improved mood, and greater clarity in dealing with difficult emotional situations.

Music as an emotional catalyst

Singing, playing an instrument, improvising sounds, or simply listening to certain melodies can have a significant effect on psychological well-being.

Music therapy is based on this premise and has been shown to have both emotional and physical benefits. Through work with a specialized therapist, aspects such as attention, memory, communication, and mood regulation are stimulated.

It has been especially valuable in clinical settings where patients have difficulty expressing themselves verbally, such as in cases of neurodevelopmental disorders or childhood depression. It has also been shown to be useful in older adults and hospitalized individua