Since ancient Greece, healers have prescribed art to aid those facing mental challenges. Today, the practice is a precisely honed craft used by credentialed professionals to help people suffering from PTSD, stress, depression and more.

Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art making and the creative process to address mental health concerns such as mood disorders, communication and learning disorders, neurological disorders, and neurocognitive disorders like dementia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

A new study by Keyes and fellow researchers has found that engaging in creative activities can significantly boost well-being by providing meaningful spaces for expression and achievement.

Arts-based therapies involve using specific artistic activities to improve physical conditions (for example, regular dance classes to benefit people with Parkinson's disease) and spark positive feelings through creative expression.

Art therapy is a powerful form of expressive therapy that utilizes the creative process of art-making to enhance the physical, mental and emotional well-being of individuals across all age groups.

For thousands of years, people have been using arts like singing, painting and dancing for healing purposes. Modern healthcare settings continue to use art to help treat specific conditions, contribute to overall well-being and even help prevent diseases.