The act of making something is a powerful form of creativity. Whether it be painting pictures, writing music, sewing skirts or baking cakes, the process of creating can have a positive effect on your mental health. This is because art and craft stimulate different parts of the brain, boosting happiness, lessening depression and enhancing cognition and visual perception, to name just a few benefits.

For children, learning crafts can help them develop self-confidence and a belief in their own abilities. The act of making teaches them to persevere through challenges, which is important in their development and well-being. It also provides a tangible representation of their efforts, fostering feelings of pride and accomplishment. Furthermore, the act of making can encourage social interaction as many crafting groups (both in person and online) are available for people to come together and share their passion for a craft.

DIY crafting can also provide a form of stress relief, as it requires a focused state of mind that can shift your attention away from stressful situations or worries. The rhythmic, repetitive nature of certain crafts, such as knitting or beading, can help to lull your mind and create a sense of calm and tranquility. This may be similar to the meditative effect of yoga or meditation, and can be particularly useful for individuals who suffer from chronic pain conditions.

Moreover, DIY crafting can provide a form of exercise, depending on the type of craft you enjoy. This is because some crafts require a significant amount of physical activity, such as woodworking or carpentry, where the use of hand tools and strength are required, or pottery and sculpting, where you need to physically knead and shape clay. This can increase motivation and adherence to an active lifestyle, improving overall physical health.

For people who suffer from PTSD, Anxiety Disorders, Depression or any level of chronic pain, DIY crafting can help to alleviate symptoms by providing an outlet for negative emotions and distracting you from your painful thoughts. The immersive nature of DIY crafting can also help to reduce pain levels by diverting your attention away from the source of discomfort, and this can be especially beneficial for individuals who suffer from chronic pain conditions or whose pain is exacerbated by their environment, such as those with Autism.

Additionally, for those suffering from a loss or the death of a loved one, the grieving process can be difficult to cope with. However, the act of making can help to ease this process by providing an opportunity to remember and celebrate their life through artistic creations. This can be a great way for individuals to heal and move forward, and it can also help them feel more connected with the person who has passed on, as they are able to see their creations in others, and that they will live on forever. This can be especially useful for those who are unable to grieve in any other traditional or formal ways.