The Indian mental health scenario is not in a good condition. India ranks second only to China in suicide rates among the world’s most populous countries. In rural areas, people typically live in close proximity to their extended families, which can be protective against mental illness. But many Indian migrants have relocated to cities without this kind of social support network; they turn out to be at heightened risk of mental illness because they face more isolation and job insecurity.
In recent years there’s been a growing recognition that art-based therapies could help tackle India’s mental health crisis—and some pioneering organisations are bringing these therapies into the country for the first time.
One of these is the ManoShala, which is dedicated to use art-based therapies in India as an alternative or addition to the conventional talk therapy sessions. Founded in 2020, ManoShala has been offering art-based therapies in colleges, schools and corporates in Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai and even online.
ManoShala holds bi-weekly art-based therapy sessions remotely for people suffering from mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety and dementia. The sessions are very affordable and built around the tools of expressive arts therapy that promote self-expression through art forms like music, drama and colouring.
Are these art based therapy sessions successful?
There’s been a lot of research on the effectiveness of art based therapy and one study in the US (published in 2012) found it to be as effective as conventional therapies. Also, people who attend the session claim it to be stress relieving, soothing and cathartic.
What kind of people are using it?
Students, working professionals, people living with chronic diseases, trauma survivors, and people who believe in self care are actively participating in such sessions. People suffering from depression claim that it helps them get in touch with their feelings and emotions. A student said that she used to write poetry as a child but never felt good about herself because no one appreciated it. With ManoShala’s sessions, her confidence has grown and now she feels empowered to channel all her thoughts into art forms like music, poetry or painting.
Merits of choosing art based therapy sessions over conventional therapy sessions
Arts therapies are a good option because they shift the focus from the specific issues to more creative expression. Another aspect that makes it attractive to people is that it doesn’t require people to share their personal issues with a stranger in a room. It’s also cost effective and available online as well, which can be helpful for people living in areas where they don’t have easy access to a therapist.
Speaking about their unique concept, Founder & CEO of ManoShala, Kratika Agarwal said, “Art-based Art Therapy has been used extensively in the West for decades now. But it is a fairly new concept in India. We are the first to bring it to the country and I’m glad we’re getting a lot of good feedback from people who have been using this modality of therapy. Our vision is to create a world where everyone seeks proactive self-care, rather than putting their health at risk. Art-based art therapy sessions are an easy, effective and affordable way for people to access self care!”
She further added, “Art has always been one of the most powerful forms of expression, because it allows people to express themselves without being judged. It connects people with their own emotions in a way that’s not possible through normal conversation.”
About ManoShala
ManoShala strives to provide holistic care for individuals who are coping with mental health issues. It is a one-stop destination for individuals who are suffering from illness because they provide them with therapy, medication, online counselling 24/7 as well as engagement programs and community support groups.
For more information, you can visit http://manoshala.com
or drop a mail on community@manoshala.com