Harnessing Creativity: The Essential Role of Arts-Based Approaches in Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Research

The workshop included a practical activity where attendees, segregated into teams, created research protocols using art-oriented methodologies.
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Erminia Colucci, a Professor of Visual Psychology and Cultural and Global Mental Health at the Department of Psychology, Middlesex University London, on Monday highlighted the transformative potential of incorporating artistic expressions – including painting, drawing, photography, and video – into methodologies for suicide prevention research.

At the commencement of a two-day workshop named “Exploring Arts and Visual Methods in Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Research,” Prof. Colucci stated that art holds the capacity to delve deeply into phenomena, provide a voice to the voiceless, and empower underrepresented communities.

This workshop was conducted by the Departments of Mental Health Education and Psychiatric Social Work at NIMHANS in partnership with N-SPRITE (NIMHANS—Suicide Prevention, Research, Implementation, and Training Engagement).

Drawing from her extensive background, Prof. Colucci, whose input in cultural and global mental health (especially in suicide prevention and refugee mental health) has shaped policies and educational practices globally, shared case studies from her initiatives utilizing methods such as photovoice and digital storytelling.

The workshop comprised a practical segment where participants, divided into factions, established research protocols embedding art-driven models. These creative proposals were subsequently presented, promoting a dynamic exchange of ideas regarding how arts and visual methodologies can enhance mental health research and suicide prevention initiatives.

The event also included a screening of ‘Harmoni: Healing Together,’ an ethnographic documentary by Prof. Colucci that illuminates the fusion of mental health and traditional healing practices in Indonesia. The film illustrated the poignant experiences of those with mental disorders, some facing extreme restraints, and underscored the vital role of dukuns (faith healers) collaborating with contemporary medical practitioners.

A panel discussion ensued following the screening, emphasizing the convergence of holistic care, traditional healing, and contemporary medical approaches. Panel members accentuated the importance of visual storytelling in dismantling stigmas and raising awareness around mental health.