Are you feeling like you’re living in a real-life version of the Upside Down from “Stranger Things” with all the craziness going on in the world right now? Well, fear not! There’s a fun and creative way to deal with the stresses of our modern times, and it involves using art sketchbooks as a mental health tool.

That’s right, art sketchbooks are an excellent tool for promoting mental health and well-being. They allow us to express our emotions and process our thoughts in a safe and non-judgmental way. Plus, they can be a lot of fun!

Here are some tips on how to use art sketchbooks to deal with hard news and stressors:

1. Start by finding a sketchbook that you love. It could be a funky and colorful one with fun patterns or a more traditional one with blank pages. Whatever it is, make sure it’s something that you feel drawn to and excited to use. I recommend creating a cool cover for your sketchbook.
2. Set aside a moment each day or each week to work on your sketchbook. This could be a designated “art time” or just a few minutes each day to doodle and draw. The important thing is to make it a habit.
3. Use your sketchbook to explore your emotions and thoughts. You could create a visual journal of your day, draw your feelings, or use it as a space to reflect on the news and issues that are affecting you. This is one way I worked through my own emotions during Covid and the hard times that followed.
4. Don’t worry about being “good” at art. The beauty of sketchbooks is that they are a space for you to experiment and play with different styles and mediums. It’s not about creating a masterpiece; it’s about using art as a tool for self-expression and stress relief. Try writing about what bothers you then make images or collages from it.
5. Share your work with others if you feel comfortable doing so. You could start an art group with friends, share your work on social media, or even exhibit your work in a local gallery. It can be empowering and validating to see others connect with your art and share in your experiences.

Remember, using art sketchbooks as a tool for promoting mental health is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Everyone is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. But if you’re looking for a fun and creative way to deal with the stresses of the world, art sketchbooks are definitely worth exploring.

So go ahead and get your creative juices flowing, and don’t forget to have fun while you’re at it!

If you need more help thinking of art prompts for your sketchbook journal I made a book with hundreds of ideas to get you on a journey of self-discovery