How Performing Arts Benefits Mental Health.

Emotional Resilience and Stress Relief

One of the most notable benefits of engaging in performing arts is the enhancement of emotional resilience. Emotional resilience is the ability to adapt to stressful situations and bounce back from adversity. Performing arts activities provide a creative outlet for expressing emotions, which can be particularly therapeutic. Whether through the cathartic process of acting out a dramatic scene or the physical exertion of dance, students can channel their feelings in constructive ways.

In the UK, where academic and social pressures can cause significant challenges for children and young people, extracurricular performing arts offer a vital respite from the daily grind. Studies have shown that participating in activities taught at PQA can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. For instance, a study conducted by the University of London found that students who participated in drama classes showed a significant reduction in stress and anxiety levels. This stress relief is crucial for maintaining mental health, particularly in a fast-paced and high-pressure society.

Building Self-Esteem and Confidence

Participation in performing arts classes can significantly boost self-belief and confidence. Performing in front of an audience, whether large or small, requires a great deal of courage. Overcoming the initial fear of performing helps PQA students build confidence, which can translate to other areas of their lives. In the UK, where mental health statistics among young people indicate rising levels of anxiety and depression, this boost in self-esteem is particularly valuable.

The process of creating a short film, mastering a musical theatre number, or rehearsing a theatrical performance fosters a sense of accomplishment. Achieving small goals within these activities can enhance self-worth and provide a sense of purpose. According to research by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER), students who engage in performing arts are more likely to report higher levels of self-confidence and overall satisfaction with life.

 Social Connectedness and Community

Classes at PQA emphasize collaboration and teamwork, which can strengthen social bonds and reduce feelings of isolation. This sense of belonging can be incredibly beneficial for mental health, as strong social connections are a protective factor against mental illnesses like depression and anxiety. Additionally, performing arts classes like those at PQA celebrate diversity and inclusivity, allowing students from different backgrounds to connect and learn from each other.

Cognitive and Emotional Development

The cognitive benefits of performing arts are well-documented, and these benefits also extend to mental health. Performing arts stimulate the brain in unique ways, enhancing cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. In the UK, educational policies increasingly recognize the importance of holistic development, and performing arts play a crucial role in this regard.

Moreover, at PQA, students are encouraged to step into different roles and consider different perspectives, helping to foster empathy and emotional intelligence. Understanding and portraying diverse characters and emotions helps our students develop a deeper understanding of themselves and others. This emotional growth is essential for mental health, as it enhances the ability to manage one’s own emotions and navigate complex social situations.

The Benefits of Sending Your Child to PQA 

To sum up, the mental health benefits of extracurricular performing arts classes like those offered by PQA are multifaceted and significant. The activities that children and young people explore in our academies promote emotional resilience, reduce stress, build self-belief, foster social connections, and enhance cognitive and emotional development, all while being great fun!

At PQA, we play a crucial role. By creating a safe, inclusive space where children and young people can come together to explore the performing arts, guided by expert teachers, and have fun along the way, we can help to create a healthier, more resilient, and more connected generation.

Click here PQA & Your Child to learn more about how we foster a supportive and inclusive space.

Tim Jenner – PQA CEO