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You’ve probably heard people tout the benefits of creativity. We hear people all the time encourage others to engage their creative side. You may have a vague sense that it’s “good” to be creative, but you may find yourself thinking, “actually… why is it important to be creative?”

In my opinion? Creative expression and mental health are intrinsically linked. I believe that creativity is an innate part of being human and, therefore, is an important part of fulfillment.

Creativity is Human Nature

I’m not just talking out of my ass here, I promise. If you’ll allow me to get a little nerdy and talk about human evolution for a minute…

(I mean, you don’t really have a choice, I’ve already written it. I suppose you can skip it though if you really want to.)

There are many examples of humans’ creativity dating back tens of thousands of years ago. The earliest cave paintings that we’ve found (so far) date back to over 50,000 years ago. Even more complex creations like beaded jewelry date back tens of thousands of years. It’s not as if creativity is unique to only the past few centuries. In fact, creativity probably has helped our species evolve and survive, as it’s responsible for the creation of things like stone tools, even if that level of creativity is not quite on the same level as the creativity evident in the Mona Lisa.

Considering how long humans have engaged with creativity, it’s not a stretch to believe that we have evolved to get some benefits out of it.

How Creativity Affects Mental Health

I personally think the positive impact of creativity on mental health is perhaps one of the most important reasons to be creative. Studies have shown there are many benefits of creativity for mental health. It leads to greater feelings of happiness. It provides an outlet for emotional expression and regulation which can, in turn, help people apply those same principles in stressful situations. Research has also shown that it increases a person’s sense of autonomy and provides a feeling of empowerment.

Honestly, I could keep going. There are so many benefits of creativity for mental health. I mean, there must be a reason art therapy exists, right? Probably because it works.

Creativity is Important for Our Communities

Creativity isn’t just important on an individual level. On a slightly larger scale, it’s important for communities as it fosters a sense of social connectedness. Whether it’s a community theater, an orchestra, or a group of only a few people who get together to crochet with one another, these groups provide a supportive network for those involved and increase community engagement.

While it may seem like this is just an extension of my last point about how creativity is important for mental health, socially connected communities impact more than just mental wellbeing. Humans are social creatures and being socially connected has actually been found to have a positive impact on physical health, too. Some of those benefits of creativity may surprise you – everything from helping regulate blood sugar to increasing the chance of surviving cancer. Pretty impressive, huh?

My Creativity Story

If you’ve been to the blog before or are on my email list, you’ve probably heard me talk about how reconnecting with my creativity really transformed my life and my emotional wellbeing.

I spent well over a decade stifling my creativity in pursuit of more “practical” things. Perhaps coincidentally or perhaps not, my mental health was the worst its been during that time.

A few years ago, I decided to start engaging my creative side again and pretty quickly started to see the benefits. When I’m keeping up with my creativity, I personally notice I feel calmer, less anxious, less depressed, and more fulfilled. I love exploring new creative activities and experimenting with things. I love the feeling I get when I surprise myself by making something particularly awesome. And I really love being able to make things for other people (of course, only those who will appreciate it 😉).

So why is it important to be creative? Well, as we’ve covered, there are lots of reasons. But in short – we benefit on both a personal and a collective level when we’re creative, no matter what form that creativity takes.

Key Takeaways

• Creativity is part of being human. It’s been with us for tens of thousands of years (think of cave art) and it is not just a mindless modern hobby.
• Creative expression supports mental health. It can boost happiness and help you process and manage emotions.
• Making things can help you feel more in control since creativity often builds autonomy and a sense of empowerment.
• Art therapy exists for a reason! It’s widely used because it helps people cope and heal.
• Creativity strengthens community ties with groups like theater, music, and craft circles. Being part of a group like that can build connection and support. Believe it or not, those community bonds link to better physical health outcomes, too.
• You don’t need to be “an artist.” Any form of creativity counts – the benefits show up either way!
• When you make space for your creativity, it can help you feel calmer, less anxious, less depressed, and more fulfilled.

If you’re doubting yourself and your ability to be creative, grab my free printable creativity affirmation cards. They’ll help encourage you on this journey. It’s worth it!