Traditional arts and events for mental and social well-being: a scoping review framed by intangible cultural heritage

Abstract

To maintain mental and social well-being, strengthening community environments alongside targeting high-risk individuals is needed. Traditional arts and events may promote connectedness and social bonds, benefiting social and cultural well-being. However, research on non-therapeutic cultural factors remains limited and mostly confined to specific regions. This scoping review mapped current knowledge on the effects of traditional arts and events on mental and social well-being by systematically searching three databases-two global and one specific to Japan. A total of 42 relevant studies were identified, demonstrating that traditional arts and events, from daily practices to festivals, influence well-being. The review highlights the potential of cultural approaches to reduce the global burden of mental and social well-being challenges. Integrating these approaches can help health professionals and policymakers develop more comprehensive strategies beyond conventional frameworks.

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