Effect of Art Therapy and Nursing Care on Patients with Anxiety Disorders: Aligned with SDG 3 and SDG 10

Abstract

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions, often leading to significant impairments in daily functioning and overall quality of life. Conventional treatments such as pharmacological therapy and cognitive-behavioral interventions are effective but may not fully address the diverse psychological and emotional needs of patients. This secondary research paper examines the combined effect of art therapy and nursing care on patients with anxiety disorders, drawing on evidence from global studies and program evaluations. Findings indicate that art therapy provides a non-verbal, creative outlet for emotional expression, reducing stress, enhancing self-awareness, and promoting resilience. Nursing care complements this process by offering holistic, compassionate support that builds trust, ensures treatment adherence, and fosters continuity of care. When integrated, art therapy and nursing care produce synergistic benefits, improving symptom management, self-esteem, and patient engagement with treatment. However, barriers such as lack of specialized training for nurses, limited resources, and cultural perceptions of creative therapies continue to restrict widespread adoption. The study concludes that incorporating art therapy into nursing care represents a promising, patient-centered approach to managing anxiety disorders, with the potential to enhance both clinical outcomes and overall quality of life.