Why arts in schools matter for mental health: from early years to adolescence

Why arts in schools matter for mental health: from early years to adolescence

Mental health challenges often begin early, with half of all lifetime mental health conditions emerging before the age of 14. Schools are often the first point of contact for children showing signs of emotional distress, making them a vital setting for prevention and early support.

Embedding arts and creative activities into the school day isn’t just enriching, it’s effective. A growing body of research, including from the World Health Organisation, University College London and the Wellcome Trust shows that engagement with music, drama, visual arts, and storytelling helps children develop emotional regulation skills, boost self-esteem, and improve social connection.

Programmes across the UK are already putting this into practice. From drama workshops that help children explore emotions, to visual art sessions that promote focus and calm, these approaches are making a measurable difference. Schools that integrate arts into pastoral care report improved behaviour, attendance, and pupil wellbeing.

Local authorities, schools and Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) can take practical steps to scale this work. Commissioning creative organisations, embedding artists into mental health support teams, or linking school wellbeing strategies with creative delivery partners can all extend impact without adding pressure to teaching staff.

This isn’t about turning schools into art studios, it’s about recognising the role creativity plays in a child’s development, resilience and recovery.

As waiting lists grow and early help becomes harder to access, arts in education can offer a meaningful, cost-effective form of mental health support, right where children are. Find out more via the Creative Review (2023) - Health & Wellbeing in the Education System Chapter >>

This Blog has been written in celebration of Creativity and Wellbeing Week 2025! During the week we are sharing practical actions, case studies and more focused on integrating creative health into population health strategies, public health interventions and mental healthcare pathways for young people. With waiting lists and services under pressure, and prevention of deteriorating wellbeing a national priority, this is the moment to act. Explore our toolkit and discover how to implement creative health in your organisation and system >> https://creativehealthtoolkit.org.uk/