Art therapy

Researchers did a systematic review in 2018. This means that a group of experts gather all the evidence about a particular subject. They then go through it to work out whether there is any evidence to support it. 

The researchers said that in people with cancer art therapy could improve their:

• emotional state

• symptoms of cancer

Researchers are currently looking at how art therapy can help with pain after breast cancer treatment.

Read more about this study

A UK survey in 2013 reported that 92% of people with cancer who had used art therapy found it helpful. It found that the nonverbal, physical and visual aspects of art therapy added to verbal support.

A study researched people having bone marrow transplants. People said that art therapy helped them share uncomfortable feelings. It also gave them support when they felt anxious and far away from loved ones.

A 2020 ​meta-analysis​ study found that art therapy had a positive effect on quality of life and symptoms in cancer patients. The study stated it can be used as a complementary treatment for cancer patients.

Researchers did a pilot study in 2017. A pilot study is a small-scale version of the main study. Pilot studies help to test that all the main parts of the study work together. The study looked at the cost. It compared the cost of mindfulness-based art therapy (MBAT) with that of a breast cancer support group.

The study also showed that the group of people with high stress levels who did MBAT, had lower stress levels after nine weeks. This was when the researchers compared them with the people who had support from the breast cancer support group. The researchers suggested that a larger study with a longer follow up was necessary.

The British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT) is the professional organisation for art therapists in the UK. It has its own Code of Ethics of Professional Practice, 20 regional groups, a European section and an international section. It keeps a comprehensive directory of qualified art therapists in the UK.

24–27 White Lion Street London N1 9PD

Phone: 020 7686 4216 Email: hello@baat.org

Visit the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT) website

An independent UK health regulator that keeps a register of qualified therapists. It sets standards of training, performance and conduct for health professionals, including music therapists, art therapists and drama therapists.

184-186 Kennington Park Road London SE11 4BU

Phone: 0300 500 6184

Visit the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) website