The art of wellness
Good news for people who love art: doctors recommend you spend time at the AGO!
They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away, but what if that apple is made of oil paint? There’s no doubt it’s unconventional, but research says a museum visit could be the answer to a number of health issues. To help combat social isolation, loneliness, depression and anxiety, the AGO has partnered with Stonegate Community Health Centre to allow their practitioners to prescribe visits to the AGO. Through this and future partnerships, the AGO will open its doors in the name of health and well-being, offering free admission to those with social prescriptions. With a referral from a doctor, nurse or social worker, individuals are able to access the AGO Collection and all special exhibitions for free.
The Alliance for Healthier Communities’ social prescription pilot program offers doctors, nurses and social workers the ability to prescribe non-medical treatment options in an effort to promote social connectedness. Social prescriptions for artistic and social activities could include anything from music lessons to dance classes or even visits to museums.
In 2013, British researchers determined museums can make you happy and healthy by reducing social isolation through positive experiences; providing calming experiences which decrease anxiety; bolstering self-esteem and a sense of identity; and by supporting communication between families, caregivers and health professionals. In the United Kingdom, where social prescribing initially took off, participants have experienced improved mental health, less social isolation and greater physical activity. Medical research has also suggested that art and creativity are important for our mental and physical well-being and that engaging in arts and culture helps to establish connectedness to the community and foster a sense of belonging.
The introduction of social prescribing could soon mean that a trip to the doctor might become less routine than a trip to the AGO. And we’re all right with that!
Admission to the AGO Collection and all special exhibitions is always free for AGO Members, AGO Annual Pass holders and visitors 25 and under. For more information, please visit the website.
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