How Art Helps Process Emotions

"You Gaslight Me" — a personal art journal entry exploring the anger and sadness I felt after being gaslighted by a parent. Some of the most painful words are covered with hearts.

Art has always been a way for me to process emotions. Each time I create, I feel lighter—like I’m moving darkness out of my heart and onto the page. Writing, drawing, and painting aren’t just creative acts; they are emotional release.

When I create, I shut off my mind and follow my heart. Sometimes that means brush strokes. Other times, it’s scribbled words alongside the colors. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be felt.

Letting Go of Perfection

One thing I’ve learned—especially from working with kids—is to let go of the outcome. Not every piece is a masterpiece. Not every creation "works." But that’s not the point. The point is expression, release, and self-understanding.

A Simple Process for Healing Through Art

You don’t have to be an artist for this. Art is just a tool to connect with yourself. Here’s a simple way to get started:

1. Gather Your Supplies

A notebook (composition or fancy—it doesn’t matter).
Markers, crayons, watercolor, or any medium you like.
No need for high-end supplies—just what feels good.

2. Journal & Assign Colors to Your Emotions

Write what’s in your heart—past pain, present struggles, or even unnamed emotions.
Choose colors that match your feelings. For example:
- Anger: Red, orange, yellow, black.
- Sadness: Blues, purples, grays.
- Hope: Greens, whites, soft pastels.

3. Use Music to Access Deep Emotions

If you’re working through past pain, play music from that time. For me, revisiting my 8th grade and sophomore years means listening to The Smashing Pumpkins and The Cranberries. Music is a time machine—it can bring emotions to the surface so they can be released.

4. Give Yourself Grace & Release the Energy

This is deep work. Be gentle with yourself.
Healing isn’t a one-and-done process. Let emotions rise naturally.
After creating, do something to release the energy:
- Take a nap.
- Go for a walk.
- Take a shower and visualize the water cleansing your heart and washing the pain away.

You Don’t Have to Share It—It’s for You

Your art doesn’t need to be seen by anyone. It doesn’t need to be "good." The simple act of getting it out of your heart and into form is healing in itself.

And if art isn’t your thing, that’s okay. Any creative act—writing, knitting, playing music—can give your pain a voice.

Healing is a journey, and art is a powerful companion along the way.

How Art Supports Emotional Healing