4.7 (4.11) The contribution of art therapy to palliative medicine

Question 1

What is the purpose of art therapy? How does it differ from creative arts

Answer 1

both engage patient in actively using art media and provide a focus and sense of purpose

creative arts help produce artwork to sell or bequeath to others

Art therapy pt’s strive to express and explore their inner emotional landscape and there is no expectation about aesthetic quality of their work

Question 2

List three populations for whom art therapy may be particularly helpful

Answer 2

patients, family, carers who are having difficulty with communication

patients of varying ethic and cultural backgrounds

ie. dementia, young children, hiv/aids

Question 3

Metanalyses of art therapy suggest that it can be a beneficial supportive care tool in PC. List four benefits of art therapy and one risk

Answer 3

Hazards
potential to overwhelm patient
if role of art therapist within the team not understood then interuptions may occur
art therapist may need support given difficult nature of work

Outcomes
development of a creative attitude by the patient towards circumstances
increased sense of control
better communication

wider range of expressive capabilities
increased insight into patient’s own behaviour

body image issues addressed

cathartic release of emotive issues

increased self esteem and self efficacy

increased ability to confront existential
questions and relieve spiritual distress

development of positive coping strategies and increase in coping resources

reduction in experiences and reports of physical pain

increased QOL