Number 37 in our countdown of '70 Ways Art Improves Our Health' highlights the potential for art to aid substance abuse recovery…

Contrary to popular belief, there is little evidence that drugs and alcohol make us more creative. In fact, a study of existing research in 2016 concluded that although creativity and drug use are associated, “The results that we have suggest no direct link between the two.”

No one knows exactly where our creativity comes from. Theories suggest many different genetic and environmental elements are involved: hereditary traits, family nurturing, early exposure to art, good teaching, an appetite for learning, and endless creative practice.

One thing we do know is that addiction smothers creativity. But also, thankfully, that art can aid an addict in their lifelong recovery.

“Art therapy and other creative activities can offer an emotional outlet and a way of expressing inner thoughts.”

Recovery from addiction involves much more than stopping the use of drugs or alcohol. We also have to understand why we became addicted in the first place and the reasons for wanting to create a new drug-free life for ourselves.

Like many others living with physical and mental health issues, addicts may struggle to recognise and communicate their emotions. Art therapy and other creative activities can offer an emotional outlet and a way of expressing inner thoughts. Memories and experiences that are too painful or shameful to speak about can be expressed through paint, pencil, clay and any other medium.

Of course, everyone recovers in different ways, but when art is combined with detox and talking therapies, it can be a powerful way to encourage healing.

In his blog, Wynford Ellis Owen, Chief Executive Officer at the Living Room Cardiff (a community-based recovery centre), painted us a vivid and moving picture of how the Paintings in Hospitals art collection supports the recovery of service users. You can read Wynford’s blog here.

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