Canvas of Calm: A Pilot Study on Art-Based Interventions for Academic Stress Management in Higher Education

Background

Art has long been recognised as a powerful medium for self-expression, emotional healing and stress reduction. In the context of academic stress, creative art-based interventions provide students with non-verbal outlets to process emotions and build resilience.

Aim

This pilot study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of two art-based therapeutic techniques - scribbling and gratitude mandala colouring - in reducing academic stress among undergraduate students.

Method

A total of 51 undergraduate students (both male and female) from Salesian College, Siliguri, participated in this pre- and post-intervention pilot study. The Academic Stress Scale, developed by Jain and Dikshit, was administered before and after the 4 week intervention. Participants engaged in weekly 1-h sessions featuring intuitive scribbling, scribble swap, self-gratitude and family gratitude mandala colouring, with weekly assignments. Feedback was collected after each session to capture participants' reflections.

Results

Results showed a significant reduction in academic stress levels post-intervention (t = 3.44, p < 0.001), with a decrease in mean stress scores from 98.70 (SD = 8.96) to 90.35 (SD =13.75). Participants reported increased mindfulness, improved concentration, a sense of relaxation and strengthened relationships with family members.

Conclusion

The techniques enabled creative expression without fear of judgement, fostering self-assurance and better coping mechanisms. This study highlights the potential of art-based interventions addressing academic stress in higher education.