Group art activities and arts therapies for people using substances: A rapid review of the literature

Abstract

Background: Literature on the arts and their role in enabling recovery in individuals with mental health issues is fairly extensively researched and the valuable effectiveness documented. However, the influence of group arts activities and arts therapies and their role in enabling recovery of individuals who use substances is not widely researched, especially not outside of the arts therapies literature. Objectives : This study reviews the academic literature relating to group arts activities and arts therapies and their role in enabling recovery of people who use substances. Method : A rapid review methodology was used for the literature search using the PRISMA framework. Findings : The discussion evaluates the evidence to support the use of group arts activities and arts therapies in the recovery of individuals who use substances. The majority of relevant literature relates to evaluation of arts therapies interventions. The effects of the use of music are most frequently reported within the relevant literature. Conclusion : The article concludes that group arts activities and arts therapies have health and well-being benefits for individuals who use substances. The current evidence would benefit from further research in this area using larger sample sizes, with quantitative measures used, in addition to the qualitative methodology that has been used to date. Furthermore, follow-up studies are needed to assess whether the benefits are maintained. Keywords addiction arts activities art therapies groups substance use misuse

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