Art Making for Stress Reduction: A Cortisol Study

 

Over the past decade, there has been a growing interest in understanding the biological underpinnings of creative self-expression, particularly in relation to stress. Salivary cortisol, a well-studied biomarker of stress, has been a focal point in this research, offering a noninvasive way to assess the physiological impact of interventions aimed at reducing stress.

The Role of Cortisol in Stress:

Cortisol, a glucocorticoid hormone regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, is a key marker in stress studies. Dysfunctions in the HPA axis are associated with physiological stress responses, making cortisol levels indicative of stress. Reductions in salivary cortisol have been reported in clinical studies following behavioral interventions targeting stress.

Art Making and Stress Reduction:

Various forms of creative expression, including expressive writing, music, and art, have shown promise in improving psychological states and biomarkers related to stress. Art, in particular, has been utilized as a therapeutic tool in healthcare settings, demonstrating positive effects on well-being for patients and caregivers alike.

The Current Study:

This pilot study aimed to examine the outcomes of art making facilitated by an art therapist in a structured, therapy-like setting. The study included 39 participants from diverse backgrounds, and the primary focus was on measuring changes in salivary cortisol levels before and after the art-making session.

Methods:

Participants, consisting of students, staff, and faculty, engaged in a 1-hour art-making session led by the first author, who also served as the facilitating art therapist. The study employed a quasi-experimental design without a control group. Saliva samples were collected before and after the art-making session for cortisol analysis.

Results:

The study supported the hypothesis that art making would lead to a reduction in salivary cortisol levels. Contrary to expectations, participants with prior art-making experience or those using less structured media did not show greater cortisol reduction. No significant associations were found based on demographics such as age, gender, or race/ethnicity.

Written responses from participants revealed themes such as evolving process and learning about self, showing weak correlations with cortisol reduction. Notably, approximately 75% of participants experienced lowered cortisol levels after art making.

Limitations and Future Directions:

The study had limitations, including the absence of a control group and a predominantly nonclinical sample. Further research is needed to understand the specific mechanisms at play during art making and its varying effects on cortisol levels. Exploring additional biomarkers and psychological measures may enhance our understanding of stress reduction mechanisms.

Conclusion:

This pilot study provides preliminary evidence for the stress-reducing effects of art making, offering insights into the potential benefits of creative self-expression on cortisol levels. While more research is needed to validate and expand these findings, the study contributes to the growing body of literature supporting the therapeutic potential of art in mitigating stress.

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