If excessive time spent on technology and social media can hinder children from forming meaningful connections, engaging in arts and crafts may be crucial in combating mental health problems affecting millions globally. These findings, from two recent studies, underscore the importance of protecting tender minds from the negative health impacts of technology while highlighting the benefits of creative activities for mental well-being.

Dr Helen Keyes of Anglia Ruskin University in the UK, the lead author of the study highlighted that crafting’s positive effects on well-being were more significant than those of employment.

The study delved into the meaningful impact of crafting, noting that its positive effects on well-being were more significant than those of employment. The research found that participation in creative activities significantly enhances life satisfaction, happiness, and the belief that life is worthwhile, suggesting that arts and crafts could play a key role in promoting public mental health.

“Crafting provides a sense of achievement and a meaningful route to self-expression, which is not always the case with employment,” she explained.

The study evaluated public engagement with various cultural, digital, and sporting activities, controlling for variables such as gender, age, health, employment status, and deprivation levels to assess the general impact of creative arts on well-being. Participants reported higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction, as well as a stronger sense that life is worthwhile, comparable to the benefits of being employed. However, the study did not find a link between crafting and reduced loneliness, potentially due to the solitary nature of some crafts.

Dr Keyes emphasised the potential for governments and health services to fund and promote crafting as part of a broader approach to enhancing public well-being.

Another study based on a survey of 1,146 parents, revealed concerns over children’s technology use, with 50 per cent worried about excessive screen time, 30 per cent about bullying, and 22 per cent about the social impact of the pandemic.