How poetry helps depressed people: A new study

A recent experiment demonstrates that involving oneself in poetry—whether by reading, writing, or sharing—can serve as a valuable means of coping with loneliness, anxiety, and also depression.

Conducted through a survey of 400 individuals amid the pandemic, the study discovered that poetry had a clear and positive effect on their overall well-being.

This new information highlights the substantial influence of poetry in contributing to health, well-being, and cultural recovery during the challenging period of the pandemic.

How it was studied

More than half of the people in the survey revealed that reading or writing poetry contributed to alleviating feelings of loneliness, and an additional half found it beneficial for easing their anxiety and depression.

Around 34% of them reported feeling less anxious through their engagement with the website, while 24% felt more capable of handling their problems.

Additionally, 17% found it helpful in coping with bereavement, and 16% noted assistance with ongoing mental health symptoms.

Participants emphasized how poetry acted as a lifeline, providing strength during the pandemic, with one expressing its role as a means to capture complex emotions related to loss and offer hope to those facing isolation.

Why it's important to know

Specialists suggest that connecting poetry to a community-building platform had a huge positive impact, bringing people together and also fostering a supportive environment for creative expression.

The experiment clearly shows the potential of creativity in helping individuals navigate difficult circumstances by art and mindfulness.
 

• Related news:
• research
• poetry
• mental health
• depression treatments
• loneliness
• 10 December 2023

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