Art therapy of crisis states

The problem of crisis states in modern psychological science is not accidental and relevant. It is determined by a number of universal and specific factors characteristic of modern society. The instability of social existence, the loss of habitual life meanings and values, political, economic, environmental troubles – all this causes an increase in the level of general tension and anxiety, an increase in the intensity of such experiences as loneliness, fear of the future, uselessness, meaninglessness of existence.
We understand a personal crisis as a special stage in the development of a person, when the process of combining the internal subsystems of the material, social and spiritual Ego into a single integral space takes place. There comes a time of reassessment of life values ​​and in this process a person begins to rethink his place in life, moves to a more holistic level of existence. In the event that a person encounters experiences that, in strength or duration, exceed his psychological regulatory capabilities, a crisis occurs, a temporary disintegration of the personality.

The use of art therapy techniques at work can serve as diagnostic material in the differential diagnosis of crisis states.

Here are some types and techniques of art therapy that can be used when working in a crisis.

Drawing is one of the main techniques of art therapy. You can draw with anything, but it should be remembered that it is better for a nervous person to use chalk, because watercolor, which spreads, can provoke anxiety. Chalk is easier to control, and a person carries this feeling to life. And if a person is notorious, then it is better to paint with watercolors – this will help him feel relaxed.

The collage is made from newspaper and magazine clippings, natural materials, photographs, colored paper. When making a collage, there is no tension associated with a lack of artistic ability, which is why it allows everyone to get a successful result.

Mask therapy. The mask is molded on the face. First, a cream is applied to the skin, on which the first layer of paper is laid out, and the second is glued on top. Then it is removed and dried, and then painted.