Mental Health in the Artist Community & How to Cope
Let's talk about some real stuff today. Creating art is a wonderful way to express ourselves and explore our creativity. However, it can also be a source of stress and anxiety, especially when we are facing creative blocks or deadlines. Many people may turn to art as a way to destress, but statistics show that artists (and especially creative entrepreneurs) have their own struggles with mental health.
I personally find myself struggling with anxiety and the pressure of balancing work, my business, social media, physical health, spiritual health, social life, family… ALL THE THINGS. I remember when I first learned calligraphy and it was a hobby, it was the perfect creative escape from the demands of grad school. I was in love with the art. But now that my hobby has turned into a business, I find that at times it's more stressful than enjoyable. I realized I need to be honest with myself about how much I can actually handle, and not feel the pressure to perform and keep up.
Here are some research findings and statistics related to stress and anxiety in the artist community:
A study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology found that artists experience high levels of stress due to the demands of their work and the lack of control they have over their work environments.
According to a survey by the Creative Independent, a resource for creative people, 62% of artists reported experiencing anxiety, and 44% reported experiencing depression.
A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that creative individuals may be at a higher risk for developing mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.
Research also suggests that the stress of running a business can take a toll on the mental health of entrepreneurs. A study published in the Journal of Business Venturing found that entrepreneurs are more likely to experience anxiety and depression than the general population.
SO WHAT DO WE DO? HOW DO WE COPE??
I'm glad you asked. Dealing with mental health IS NOT A PASSIVE PROCESS. We have to be intentional about taking care of your physical, mental, and spiritual health by finding Healthy ways to cope with the demands of today's society.
Keep reading to learn tips on ways to do this.
A FEW HEALTHY WAYS TO COPE:
Prioritize self-care: ACTUALLY PRIORITIZE taking care of YOU. Self-care is crucial for managing stress and anxiety. Take time to prioritize your physical, emotional, and mental health needs. Make sure to take breaks when needed, eat healthy foods, stay hydrated, and exercise regularly.
Manage your time: Time management is important for reducing stress and achieving your goals. Create a schedule and set realistic deadlines for your tasks. Prioritize your most important tasks and delegate responsibilities where possible. (I personally struggle with this one)
Connect with others: Creating art and running a business can be isolating, but connecting with other artists and entrepreneurs can help you feel less alone. It's important to connect with others who understand the creative process. Join a local art group, attend art events or workshops, or connect with other entrepreneurs online. Community is everything.
Take breaks: When you feel overwhelmed, take a break and do something you enjoy. It can be as simple as going for a walk, meditating, or stretch your body. Taking a step back can help you gain perspective and return to your work with renewed energy.
Seek professional help: If you're experiencing persistent stress or anxiety, consider seeking professional help. A mental health professional can provide support and guidance to help you manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being. If you don't have access to professional health, at least let a friend or loved one you trust know what's going on.
Creating art should be a joyful and fulfilling experience. And if you own or thinking about starting a business, being a creative entrepreneur or business owner is a journey filled with ups and downs. By prioritizing self-care, managing your time effectively, connecting with others, taking breaks, and seeking professional help when needed, you can reduce stress and anxiety and enjoy the creative process even more.
What are your thoughts on this topic? What do you do to cope?