"The Healing Power of Crafting: A Path to Mental Wellness"

Crafting as a Path to Healing: My Journey and Reflections

Introduction

For years, I worked in a low-secure mental health hospital, supporting young women aged 18 and up. In that time, I witnessed countless stories of resilience, growth, and the strength it takes to battle mental health challenges. I’ve seen success stories where women found stability and purpose, as well as heartbreaking cases where the struggle became overwhelming. Working in this environment gave me deep respect for the tools and practices that support mental health—and one of those is creativity.

Mental health has always been an integral part of my life, both professionally and personally. Over the past few years, I’ve faced my own struggles with anxiety, depression, and stress. But what I’ve learned through my own journey—and through working with individuals on their recovery—is that finding small, meaningful ways to care for ourselves can make all the difference. Crafting, a passion I initially picked up for fun, became my anchor during difficult times. It gave me a space to focus my energy, calm my mind, and find a sense of peace amid the chaos.

Why Crafting?

There’s something incredibly powerful about working with your hands. Crafting offers a form of mindfulness, a chance to disconnect from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with the present moment. For me, it’s not just about creating beautiful items—it’s about the process, the quiet rhythm, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from seeing something come together. Whether it’s rolling a bead, mixing wax for a candle, or assembling a product, crafting helps to shift my focus away from worries and stress.

As someone who has worked in mental health support for many years, I’ve seen firsthand how creativity can be a lifeline for people dealing with mental health issues. Creative activities can provide a sense of control and accomplishment, which can be particularly empowering for those who are feeling overwhelmed or lost. For many, the act of creating something can also provide a therapeutic outlet for emotions that are hard to put into words. It offers a safe space to process feelings, to slow down, and to focus on something other than the challenges at hand.

The Therapeutic Power of Crafting: Lessons from My Work and Personal Life

Throughout my years in mental health support, I saw the value of routines, small accomplishments, and creative outlets for individuals working on recovery. Crafting brings a sense of routine and purpose, offering a tangible goal and a rewarding outcome. Many of the women I worked with found comfort in art, writing, and other forms of creativity. These activities offered them a break from the weight of their struggles and a way to express their emotions.

On a personal level, I’ve found that crafting helps me to process my own feelings, especially when words fail. When I’m feeling anxious or stressed, simply working on a project allows me to channel my emotions into something productive. It’s a small but significant way of regaining control over a situation where I might otherwise feel helpless. Crafting isn’t just a hobby—it’s a form of self-care that I turn to when I need to reconnect with myself and focus on the here and now.

Crafting for Anyone, Anytime

One of the most beautiful things about crafting is that it’s accessible to everyone. You don’t need to be a skilled artist or have fancy supplies to start. Sometimes, all you need is a few minutes, a small project, and the willingness to be present in the moment. It’s not about creating perfect pieces; it’s about the process and the joy of making something with your hands.

In my next posts, I’ll share some easy projects to get started, the materials I use, and some simple techniques for crafting without pressure. I hope you’ll join me in exploring how creativity can serve as a healing tool, helping to ease stress and anxiety, and finding a sense of purpose in the act of making.

The Joy of Craft Fairs: A Refreshing Escape and a Sense of Community

One of the most rewarding aspects of running Blake’s Makes is getting the chance to participate in local craft fairs. It’s not about the sales for me—it’s about the experience of being part of a vibrant, like-minded community of crafters and creators. Every time I set up my table, I’m surrounded by people who share a love for creating beautiful things, whether it’s handmade jewellery, candles, or any other unique item. It’s a special kind of atmosphere where everyone is supportive, relaxed, and genuinely passionate about their craft.

For me, these craft fairs are a chance to step away from the usual routine and talk to people outside of my work environment. As someone who works full-time as a care coordinator and has a busy family life, it can sometimes feel like I’m stuck in a bit of a bubble. But when I’m at a craft fair, I get to engage in casual, fun conversations with other makers and visitors alike. Whether it’s sharing crafting tips, talking about favourite products, or simply chatting about life, it’s always a refreshing change of pace.

I also love that craft fairs give me something to look forward to. They’re like mini adventures—sometimes just around the corner, other times in a completely different town. It’s exciting to set up, meet new people, and see familiar faces. And even though sales are part of the day, they’re never my main focus. It’s the relaxed environment and the joy of the experience that keeps me coming back.

I often find that the people I meet at craft fairs leave a lasting impact on me. The way people light up when they talk about their passions is contagious, and I leave each event feeling energised and inspired. It’s a reminder that crafting isn’t just about making beautiful things—it’s about creating connections and finding joy in the process.