Lancashire artist says painting rediscovery aided burnout recovery

Kathryn said art had helped turn her life around after a period of feeling “completely exhausted, emotionally drained”.

She said life’s stresses really began to take their toll about 18 months ago, which led to her seeking professional help for emotional and physical burnout as a result of chronic stress.

“I felt completely exhausted, emotionally drained and this in turn was triggering my arthritis with painful flare ups,” she said.

“I was no longer my usual self, I knew I could no longer carry on feeling like this so reached out for help.”

She explained: “My GP asked me one simple question: ‘What did you enjoy most as a child?’ The answer was immediate – art.

“From that moment, I picked up a paintbrush and haven’t stopped since.

“Art has truly changed my outlook on life and have recently come to learn that art or any creative activity can play a significant role in managing anxiety and stress by providing emotional expression, mental distraction, and therapeutic benefits.”