This thesis focuses on an Art therapy approach aimed at strengthening the mental health of young people within a support group. Through a qualitative study involving five young participants, the research examines the influence of the creative process on self-expression, personal growth and the improvement of emotional well-being. Artistic expression, as a primal form of expression, enables individuals to recognize, explore and articulate their inner feelings through artistic activities such as drawing, painting and modeling. In a safe and supportive environment, where a free space is created for even the unspoken to be expressed through the language of art, it is often possible to transcend the limits of verbal communication and delve deep into the subconscious. This process allows many to open up more easily, which is particularly important for young people, as art enables them to explore and express their inner world through creative processes. Such an approach can significantly contribute to enhancing and safeguarding their mental health. These effects will be the subject of this master's thesis, in which we will closely examine the impact of the art therapy approach when working with young people in the form of a support group. We aim to shed light on the importance of art-based assistance and its contribution to a holistic approach in addressing mental health issues and distress, especially among young people and in rural areas, where access to professional help is often limited. We believe that such projects, research, and experiences can help expand knowledge and understanding in the field of art-based therapy. We hope that this work will serve as an inspiration, or even a foundation, for future research and the development of art-therapeutic approaches in general.
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