What We’re Reading in October: Exploring Creativity and Mental Health

This month at Wellspring Psychological Services, we’re diving into two thought-provoking books that explore the intersection of creativity and mental well-being.
1. Project UnLonely by Dr. Jeremy Nobel
Dr. Nobel’s Project UnLonely sheds light on the mental health crisis of loneliness and how creative expression can be a powerful remedy. Nobel highlights how making art—whether it’s painting, writing, or music—helps reduce stress, improves mood, and fosters connection. His insights show that creativity not only promotes emotional healing but also rewires the brain, offering a meaningful way to combat isolation. This book is an inspiring read for anyone looking to better understand the therapeutic role of art in mental health.
2. Creativity: Flow and The Psychology of Discovery and Invention by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
Csikszentmihalyi, best known for his concept of “flow,” explores how creativity is both a mental state and a process of discovery. He dives into the lives of creative individuals across disciplines, highlighting the psychological traits that enable them to innovate. His book is not only about creativity’s role in invention but also how entering a state of flow can enhance mental health by fostering focus, reducing anxiety, and creating a sense of fulfillment.
Both of these books offer valuable perspectives on how creativity can influence and support mental wellness. We hope they inspire you as much as they’ve inspired us!