Colouring Books

It is socially known that Adult Colouring Books are a preferred method of relaxation. Through reading a number of online articles (The Guardian; 2015. Medical Daily; 2015. The huffington Post; 2015) it is the social opinion of the public, psychologists and therapists that adult colouring books can help with a number of emotional and mental health issues. Due to the nature of the drawings, they help an individual focus their attention and therefore there is a removal of negative thoughts. It also helps them focus in a productive and positive way, with the outcome being rewarding. 

It is said that the colouring activity help individuals who suffer from anxiety and stress issues due to the relaxation of their amygdala. This is the part of the brain that controls our fight or flight response and when active this keeps individuals in a heightened adrenaline state, causing panic and hyper-vigilance. It has been said that colouring and diverting focus away from the anxiety/stress can reduce this response and therefore allowing the individual to relax and be productive in a positive way. Colouring is also said to utilize areas of the brain that enhance focus and concentration as well as helping with problem solving and organization skills. 

From this knowledge that is being socially discussed, a number of Colouring Books now brand themselves as 'Anti-stress art therapy' which could be said as commercialising mental health.