Pacific Clinics’ Hope Drop-In Center clients participated in Momentum for Healt‘s second annual Recovery Showcase in San Jose, California. The event, which was free to the public, was an opportunity to purchase art from local artists and enjoy live music and performances from individuals in recovery from substance use.
As a Recovery Showcase partner, artists from our Hope Drop-In Center’s Hope Youth Advisory, comprised of 25 clients interested in developing leadership skills and making a difference in their community, were invited to participate. During the event, these young adults practiced their entrepreneurial skills, providing face painting and creating custom made jewelry using a variety of precious stones made to order.
“For youth who participate in arts at the Hope Drop-In Center, working together with peers on art projects has helped to form bonds that support them both emotionally and with increasing self-confidence,” said Hope Drop-In Center Program Manager Jorge Mota.
Our youth also utilized the opportunity to promote the Hope Drop-In Center’s services and educate the community around the importance of arts and crafts in relation to recovery and overall mental health.
Research shows there is a strong connection between recovery and the arts, as participating in any creative endeavor — including but not limited to cake decorating, crafting, quilting, photography, coloring and painting — stimulates the production of dopamine, a natural anti-depressant. When fully immersed in a creative endeavor, one may find themself in what’s known as “the zone” or the state of “flow”, which can have an effect like meditation. This, in turn, can reduce stress and anxiety, give a sense of accomplishment and boost confidence.
