Volume 11 Issue 9 September, 2021
Senior ENT Consultant, Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery
Bangalore Baptist Hospital, Bangalore
When art meets medicine
Taking adequate care of mental health is equally important as having good physical health; wise men say that a healthy mind lives in a healthy body. Unpredictability, hectic schedule takes a toll on physician’s mental health; burnout and depression are found in high prevalence among physicians, the prevalence of burnout is as high as 42% among physicians.
Art has been an outlet for stress and frustration due to day to day challenges. You do not need to be very good; you don’t have to be a Picasso or a Rembrandt. The simple random act of colouring and doodling is enough to reduce stress and anxiety. It helps you defocus from routine choices and relax, enhancing creativity and problem-solving. Art is a remedy for mental problems; it gives you a sense of accomplishment and self-worth. Art dramatically helps in keeping good mental health; I recommend all physicians to nurture or involve in at least one art activity; it is never too late to start a new hobby.
Some of the paintings by Dr Anita Mariet Thomas (Anita Pious) shown below
