In recent years, a remarkable trend has been sweeping the world of mental health treatment-using doodle art as a therapeutic tool. What was once dismissed as idle scribbling has now gained recognition for its ability to alleviate symptoms of various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and stress. As individuals increasingly turn to art as a form of self-expression, the power of doodling has emerged as a force for healing and recovery.

Doodle art, characterized by its spontaneous and often whimsical nature, involves drawing small, spontaneous sketches or patterns without much premeditation. Unlike structured art forms, doodling encourages a free-flowing creative process that bypasses the constraints of formal training or artistic expectations. This lack of pressure and judgment makes doodle art a therapeutic tool that resonates with those grappling with mental health challenges.

Experts have found that doing doodle art can provide numerous benefits for individuals with mental health issues. Firstly, doodling offers a tangible way to channel emotions and thoughts that might otherwise be difficult to express. For many, doodling becomes a form of catharsis, allowing them to externalize their inner turmoil onto paper and gain a sense of relief and release.

Moreover, doodle art can be a potent distraction from distressing thoughts, providing respite from the negative mental loops that often plague individuals with anxiety or depression. The repetitive nature of doodling helps to focus the mind and shift attention away from overwhelming emotions. By engaging in the creative process, individuals can experience a reprieve from their mental anguish and find solace in their artwork's simplicity and meditative quality.

The therapeutic benefits of doodle art extend beyond distraction and catharsis. Research suggests that doodling can enhance mindfulness and promote relaxation. Similar to other forms of art therapy, doodling allows individuals to enter a state of flow, where they become fully absorbed in the present moment and detached from external stressors. This meditative state has been shown to reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and contribute to an overall sense of well-being.

Recognizing the immense potential of doodle art as a therapeutic intervention, mental health professionals are incorporating it into their treatment strategies. Art therapists are integrating doodling into counseling sessions, while support groups and community centers offer dedicated spaces for individuals to explore their creativity. The transformative power of doodle art lies in the artwork itself and the creation process. It is an accessible and inclusive expression that anyone can engage in, regardless of their artistic background or skill level. Doodle art transcends language barriers and connects individuals through shared experiences of healing and growth, opens new pathways for healing, and offers a colorful canvas for mental health recovery.

황동원 강남포스트 학생기자  webmaster@ignnews.kr

<저작권자 © 강남포스트, 무단 전재 및 재배포 금지>