EXPLORING THE EFFICACY OF CREATIVE ARTS THERAPIES IN MITIGATING POSTNATAL DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY: A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS OF EMOTIONAL EXPRESSION, MOOD ENHANCEMENT, AND SOCIAL SUPPORT AMONG WOMEN IN THE POSTPARTUM PERIOD
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64712/imjre.v3i1.585Keywords:
Postnatal depression, Creative arts therapies, Emotional expression, Mood enhancement, Postpartum mental healthAbstract
This qualitative study aimed to explore the impact of a ten-week creative arts intervention on women experiencing mild to moderate postnatal depression and anxiety. With traditional treatments for postnatal depression often focused on pharmacotherapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy, this research sought to examine the potential benefits of creative arts therapies as a complementary approach. Participants engaged in weekly sessions incorporating various art forms, including painting, music, and movement, designed to foster emotional expression, improve mood, and facilitate social support. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews conducted before and after the intervention and participant observations during the sessions. Thematic analysis identified three primary themes: (1) emotional expression and catharsis, (2) improvement in mood and emotional well-being, and (3) enhanced social support and connectedness. Findings indicate that creative arts interventions provided participants with a safe and supportive environment to express and process complex emotions, resulting in improved mood and a greater sense of emotional resilience. Furthermore, group-based activities facilitated social bonding, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting peer support. The study concludes that creative arts therapies offer a valuable adjunct to traditional treatments, providing a holistic and accessible option for supporting women with postnatal depression and anxiety. Further research is recommended to assess these 7interventions’ long-term impact and broader applicability in diverse cultural contexts.References
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