By Veronika Russakova a 2^nd Year Graphic Design NTU student

We often experience stress and anxiety; these feelings of stress and anxiety can be a normal response to things that are going on in our lives, e.g. it’s normal to feel some stress and anxiety over a presentation. However, I have never thought about it or felt it as much as I did as a university student. This feeling of anxiety comes not only with looming exams or deadlines but also the realisation that you are becoming responsible for your personal life. Now you can only rely on yourself and your whole life is in your hands. Also, the current changes in the world that you can’t influence in any way make you feel hopeless and panicky. Many factors trigger us and plunge us into a state of stress and anxiety.  Sometimes a whole series of trigger situations intertwine with all of the above and stress overcomes your rational thoughts.

When I began to realise that anxiety could not be hidden by simply suppressing it, I started looking for different ways to help me get back into a healthy and positive mindset. For me, my biggest help on the journey to accepting and controlling my anxiety was art.

I used to draw a lot as a child, it distracted me and helped me feel more joyful and inspired. So, I tried to use this as a foundation on the journey to having an honest conversation with myself. Sometimes it’s worth remembering what you were so inspired and passionate about as a child, maybe it was dancing, reading comics or books, colouring, writing and so on. You can repeat this hobby now, it can affect you in a similarly positive way and provide a lot of positive emotions.

Some of the drawings I made to express my feelings and relax

I also tried crocheting, it really helps to switch off our thoughts and just be in the present and enjoy the moment. As well as paper cutting for me. Most of the time when I’m immersed in the creative process, I also try to talk to myself and resolve the chaotic clump of thoughts that have formed and that have been causing me unpleasant anxious thoughts. Because the rest of the time I often ignore to the problems that are troubling me, I get distracted by the internet, by work, by whatever it takes to solve the problem. I used to do this all the time, but every time a trigger situation came up for me, I experienced the same emotions that only got worse. So, art became a guide to relaxation and dialogue with myself.

One of my crochet creations

Expressing feelings through art is an insightful and therapeutic process that provides a place for emotional release and promotes stress relief. Art provides a sense of empowerment and control over one’s creative space. In a world where many stressors can seem out of your control, the process of creating art allows you to dictate the subject matter, and choose colours, and shapes that resonate with your emotions, fostering a sense of empowerment.

Similarly, art-making requires concentration and focus, redirecting your attention away from stressors and promoting mindfulness. When you immerse yourself in the creative process, your mind becomes preoccupied with the task at hand, helping you to release tension and anxiety and reflect on it when you calm down.

Here are some creative activities you can try to help manage anxiety and stress as well as just relax and try something new:

Drawing and Sketching:

Grab a sketchbook and pencils and let your thoughts flow onto paper. Whether you’re drawing something realistic or abstract, the act of sketching can be a calming and expressive outlet.

Painting:

Experiment with watercolours, acrylics, or oils. Painting allows for free expression and the use of vibrant colours. No pressure just brush strokes!

Writing:

Expressing your thoughts and feelings through writing, be it in the form of journaling, poetry, or short stories, can be a helpful reflective practice.

Crafting:

Dive into crafting activities like knitting, crocheting, or sewing. The repetitive motions involved in these activities can induce a state of mindfulness and relaxation.

Cooking or Baking:

Experimenting with new recipes or creating your own dishes can be a deliciously creative way to unwind and focus on the present moment.

Mindful Coloring:

Adult colouring books offer intricate designs that can help focus your mind and provide a meditative experience. Choose colours mindfully and let your creativity flow.

Collage Making:

Create collages using images, words, and textures. This can be a visually engaging way to express your feelings and thoughts without relying on traditional forms of art.

Here at Healthy NTU, we as Student Mental Health Champions run many creative activities for students, to help them relax and express their feelings through creative practices. The activities include rock painting, drawing sessions, bracelet making and so much more!

If you’ve always wanted to try something creative then this is the perfect opportunity to get started, and we’re always here to help and support!

Healthy NTU Events & Activities web page

Our rock painting session with friends

For help, advice and resources whilst studying at NTU, take a look at the following for sources of support.
Support from NTU
Self-Care books in NTU’s libraries
Silvercloud: SilverCloud is our online system designed to help with a range of mental health issues.
Health and Wellbeing resources
NTSU Information and Advice service
Wellness in Mind: Advice and support for anyone in Nottingham experiencing issues with their mental wellbeing
Student Minds or Student Space
10 Keys to happiness
Mind
Papyrus
CALM