Addressing mental health through therapeutic art for incarcerated mothers

Abstract

Incarcerated mothers have a high likelihood of experiencing trauma, mental health disorders, and substance use. Incarceration contributes to high levels of stress which affects both the mothers’ and their children’s mental wellbeing. This capstone project sought to improve incarcerated mothers’ mental wellness through a 7-week therapeutic art program focused on emotional regulation, coping skills, goal setting, self-esteem, and connectedness. Through targeting these performance skills, the goal was to improve overall mental well-being. The efficacy of this program was assessed through a pre- and post- survey taken from three staff members who work closely with the women. The results indicated changes in multiple categories, including significant changes in coping and overall connectedness. This project had an impact on multiple areas of mental health. For sustainability, a binder was created that had examples of art projects and activities to decrease stress even after the program ended. More studies should be conducted to determine the effects of therapeutic art for incarcerated women.