The role of art-making as a part of treatment in women with breast cancer

Czech version

Authors: E. Zbiňovská ¹; H. Hobzová ²
Authors‘ workplace: Paspoint z. ú., Brno ¹; Masarykův onkologický ústav, Brno ²
Published in: Klin Onkol 2025; 38(5): 377-380
Category: Reviews
doi: https://doi.org/10.48095/ccko2025377

Overview

Background: Comprehensive treatment of patients with cancer includes various forms of psychosocial support aimed at improving the quality of life of patients. Psychosocial interventions help manage psychological distress and physiological symptoms associated with cancer and its treatment. These interventions include art therapy, conducted by a qualified art therapist, and independent art-making, which does not require the presence of a therapist. Both interventions have proven to be effective ways to improve psychological and some physiological symptoms in patients. Current research suggests that art interventions enable patients to express and process their emotions, reduce stress, and enhance emotional well-being. Art therapy and art-making have the potential to significantly reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, pain, and fatigue in patients. Benefits are also seen in the development of coping strategies, strengthening feelings of control, and improving interpersonal relationships. Randomized clinical trials and systematic reviews confirm positive effects on psychological resilience and overall quality of life. However, research highlights the need for higher methodological quality and addressing heterogeneity in applied art interventions. Aim: The aim of this paper is to present current knowledge on the effects of art therapy and independent art-making on psychological and physiological symptoms in cancer patients. The work focuses on identifying the therapeutic potential of these interventions and evaluating their impact on patients’ quality of life. Our intention is to contribute to a deeper understanding of the effects of art-making in the context of psycho-oncological care and to support its implementation into treatment strategies.

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