The Mental Health Edit Volume IV – Stress & Anxiety

The Mental Health Edit

Volume IV – Stress & Anxiety.  

Exercising, meditating, journaling – these are all common stress management activities that are often recommended to us. But what are the benefits of adding a creative element to how we handle our stress and anxiety? 

“I had a lot of fun with this box. It's my first month subscribing, and I got the engraving kit.

I was a little apprehensive at first, because I expected to mess everything up.

However, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was. I'm just a little obsessed now! It's been a really nice stress reliever after a long day at work! I'm looking forward to my next box already!” - Katelyn S.

Anxiety relief is by far the most reported and studied benefit of crafting. The National Library of Medicine suggests crafting and engaging in creative activities may help decrease stress, anxiety, and improve overall well-being and quality of life.

One study found that people who engaged in arts and crafts, such as painting, drawing, and textile crafts, experienced lower levels of mental distress. Research showed that people who crafted had reduced blood pressure and tension, compared to their previous high-stress state. 

Not only do projects provide a distraction from our worries, but they also help build our self-esteem by giving us a sense of accomplishment. As a result, people who added creativity to their life reported on experiencing higher levels of mental functioning and life satisfaction.

To further support, a study called “The Influence of Art Making on Anxiety” suggests that a little time working on art can significantly reduce a person's state of anxiety. Another study indicates that art allows people to forget about their condition for a while, allowing them to focus on the positive things in their life.

In our attempt to reduce our stress and anxiety, it is important that we start with activities that seem achievable to us. At Adults & Crafts, we understand that taking on a new DIY project can feel daunting, so we’ve put it upon ourselves to make the entire experience as seamless as possible. All of our kits come with easy-to-follow instructions and are intended for all levels, whether you consider yourself crafty or not. 

Explore our stress & anxiety-based kits here.

Sources: University of Arkansas System, National Library of Medicine, BMC Public Health, Piedmont Healthcare, Healthline