In psychology, drawing is considered an effective tool for promoting mental health. Experts also rely on it as a kind of mirror that reflects the details of a person’s psychological state. Is drawing not a transparent form of expression when words fall short?

In an interview with Annahar, the head of the Syndicate of Professional Graphic and Illustrative Arts, Rita Moukarzel, said that drawing can serve as a key element in psychology and, in many cases, as a therapeutic method at the same time.

What role do colors play in mental health?

• In psychology, colors are seen as a mirror of a person’s psychological state and a reflection of their mental well-being. A child’s drawing at school, depicting their home and family members, can reveal the nature of relationships and roles within the household.

• Colors can reflect psychological states to a certain extent. Drawings dominated by black often suggest sadness or depression, especially when they are dense with lines and details, whether by adults or children. White, on the other hand, tends to reflect greater positivity. At the same time, Moukarzel does not consider colors to be fully definitive. Red may indicate passion, black may point to gloom, and a blue sky may suggest optimism or positivity. However, emotions and mental states cannot be determined based on colors alone. The entire artwork is what indicates joy, sadness, or other emotions, not each color in isolation.

• Expressing oneself through drawing allows deeply buried feelings, which are difficult to put into words, to be conveyed onto the blank page.

• In psychotherapy, the focus is often on verbal communication, but drawing is also considered another means of expression without words. Just as people can express themselves clearly through speech, they can also communicate clearly through drawing without using language.

Illustrative image (Pexels)

• Through drawing, expression becomes freer, as there is no embarrassment or shyness. In this way, people can express themselves more boldly without facing another person, making it an effective therapeutic method that helps bring everything inside out onto the page.

• Art therapy is a creative process that can take place individually or in groups through drawing. It helps reduce and overcome anxiety and stress, which in turn supports dealing with various issues such as trauma during sessions. It also plays a role in boosting self confidence.

• Art therapy does not require any artistic talent at all.

• Free expression in psychotherapy helps bring out deep thoughts and emotions. According to Moukarzel, a therapist or observer can use these drawings within a therapeutic context to help those in distress based on what they express through their artwork.

Illustrative image (Pexels)

Treatment in such cases can also take place through drawing. This was seen with a child who would only draw circles without going beyond them, reflecting inner disturbances that kept him confined within himself. It was possible to help him break out of this circle, which symbolized what he was experiencing internally. This shows that a specialist’s perspective can directly identify the problem a person is facing through their drawings.

Even a signature, which is a form of drawing, can reflect a person’s state. It may appear complex, open, or freer, suggesting that the person is at ease with themselves. Each time a person draws, their psychological state can be immediately observed. On this basis, they can be guided through drawing to overcome any difficulties and receive support.