The Healing Effects of Art in Cancer Patients: An In-Depth Analysis of the Emotional and Physical Benefits of Visual Arts Therapy

Abstract

Creative arts therapy is a supplemental treatment method which in recent decades has been explored in aiding oncology patients in their healing process. Extensive research has been conducted on the emotional and psychological benefits of art therapy, both with cancer patients and in the healthcare field at large. In the past several years, there has also been research as to the potential physical healing benefits of art therapy in cancer patients, and the biological changes which take place in the body from the result of treatment. While these studies are relatively new and few in number, the results are promising, and provide ample background for further studies on the matter to be conducted. As these studies become more mainstream, it will likely have a positive impact on the art therapy community as a whole, by helping to provide legitimacy to the field, and limiting the reluctance and skepticism of both medical professionals as well as patients and their families. With the existing research however, it is fair to say that creative arts therapy does in fact have healing benefits for oncology patients, and should be seriously considered as a supplemental treatment for cancer.