How Performing Arts Benefits Young People’s Mental Health
Children’s Mental Health Week is taking place from Monday 3rd to Sunday 9th February and this year’s theme is ‘Know Yourself, Grow Yourself’.
The health of our children and young people has never been more important. An NHS study found that one in five children and young people in England aged eight to 25 had a probable mental disorder in 2023. A figure that is likely to have increased in 2024 as children face unprecedented pressures.
What is causing the rise in mental disorders in young people and how can performing arts help?
There are several reasons why more children and young people are suffering from a mental disorder, including pressures of the cost of living crisis, isolation and disruption to education, loneliness, lack of exercise and social media bullying, for example.
Whilst some of these difficulties can be harder to tackle than others, there are plenty of things children can do to support their mental health. Exercising, socialising with peers and learning new skills, are all said to benefit the mental and physical health of children and young people.
Extracurricular activities, such as participation in performing arts classes, have been shown to have a particularly positive impact on mental health, as it offers a valuable means of fostering emotional resilience, self-esteem, and social connectedness.
Emotional Resilience and Stress Relief
One of the most notable benefits of engaging in performing arts is the enhancement of emotional resilience. Emotional resilience is the ability to adapt to stressful situations and bounce back from adversity. Performing arts activities provide a creative outlet for expressing emotions, which can be particularly therapeutic. Whether through the cathartic process of acting out a dramatic scene or the physical exertion of dance, young people can channel their feelings in constructive ways.
In the UK, where academic and social pressures can cause significant challenges for children and young people, extracurricular performing arts offer a vital respite from the daily grind. Studies have shown that participating in activities, such as singing, dancing, film and TV production and comedy, can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. For instance, a study conducted by the University of London found that children who participated in drama classes showed a significant reduction in stress and anxiety levels. This stress relief is crucial for maintaining mental health, particularly in a fast-paced and high-pressure society.
Building Self-Esteem and Confidence
Participation in performing arts classes can significantly boost self-belief and confidence. Performing in front of an audience, whether large or small, requires a great deal of courage. Overcoming the initial fear of performing helps children and young people to build confidence, which can translate to other areas of their lives. In the UK, where mental health statistics among young people indicate rising levels of anxiety and depression, this boost in self-esteem is particularly valuable.
The process of creating a short film, mastering a musical theatre number, or rehearsing a theatrical performance fosters a sense of accomplishment. Achieving small goals within these activities can enhance self-worth and provide a sense of purpose. According to research by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER), young people who engage in performing arts are more likely to report higher levels of self-confidence and overall satisfaction with life.
Social Connectedness and Community
Taking part in performing arts classes emphasises collaboration and teamwork, which can strengthen social bonds and reduce feelings of isolation. This sense of belonging can be incredibly beneficial for mental health, as strong social connections are a protective factor against mental illnesses like depression and anxiety. Additionally, performing arts classes like those at PQA celebrate diversity and inclusivity, allowing children and young people from different backgrounds to connect and learn from each other.
Cognitive and Emotional Development
The cognitive benefits of performing arts are well-documented, and these benefits also extend to mental health. Performing arts stimulate the brain in unique ways, enhancing cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. In the UK, educational policies increasingly recognize the importance of holistic development, and performing arts play a crucial role in this regard.
At PQA, children and young people are encouraged to step into different roles and consider different perspectives, helping to foster empathy and emotional intelligence. Understanding and portraying diverse characters and emotions helps young people develop a deeper understanding of themselves and others. This emotional growth is essential for mental health, as it enhances the ability to manage one’s own emotions and navigate complex social situations.
The mental health benefits of extracurricular performing arts classes are multifaceted and significant. The activities that children and young people explore promote emotional resilience, reduce stress, build self-belief, foster social connections, and enhance cognitive and emotional development, all while being great fun.
Written by Vanessa Panter at PQA – Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts