Living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a journey. Every person has their own path, but there are some common themes, including physical pain, emotional challenge, and a sense of isolation or loneliness. We often need ways to cope with all of these things, which can include more formal techniques but also things that we can do by ourselves to find an outlet for difficult emotions and experiences.
I talked with Daniel Leighton—painter, augmented reality artist, filmmaker, technologist, and long-time Crohn’s disease patient—to explore why art is a powerful tool for processing trauma, expressing emotions, and finding hope in the setting of chronic illness.
Drawing on Daniel’s tips and experiences, this post breaks down the main themes and actionable tips for anyone interested in using art for healing and self-understanding, regardless of artistic skill.
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Why Art? The Unique Power of Creative Expression
Daniel’s journey with IBD started in early childhood. For years, he felt words weren’t enough to explain what he was feeling. Art became a way to describe what was happening, which helped build a visual vocabulary for the emotions that are difficult to express.
Getting Started: Art for Everyone, Not Just “Artists”
Many people hesitate to try their hand at art because they don’t consider themselves “artistic.” Daniel didn’t start drawing until his late 30s. He got encouragement from his wife, and started with stick figures and sketches. Even a few lines were enough to capture how the IBD was making him feel.
Tips:
- Start Simple: Use whatever materials you have—pen and paper, colored pencils, markers, or digital tools (such as a tablet).
- Focus on Expression, Not Skill: The goal is to move and express, not to be worried about creating a masterpiece.
- Let Go of Judgment: You don’t have to show your art to anyone if you don’t want to. It can be private, like a diary or a journal.
Expert Advice: “Movement and expression are more important than technical skill. Chronic illness often puts us in a fight, flight, or freeze state. Slow, mindful movement through art can help regulate these responses.” — Daniel Leighton
Art as a Tool for Processing Trauma
Daniel describes art as a way to actively process trauma. He talks about how he moves feelings out of his body and onto the canvas. The act of creation can be healing and helps you feel safer and more in control.
Using Art for Trauma Processing
- Draw What You Feel: Start with simple marks or shapes that represent your pain, anxiety, or other emotions.
- Create “Pain Charts”: One way to start is to use faces, colors, or abstract forms to make a visual map of how you feel physically or emotionally.
- Revisit and Reflect: Your art will change over time, and as you uncover more things about your experiences.
Embracing the Healing Process: Self-Compassion and Acceptance
Daniel describes how a difficult lesson he learned was in not avoiding his emotions. Suppressing feelings, he found, only led to more suffering.
- Practical Steps: Create a Safe Space: Whether through therapy, supportive friends, or private art-making, give yourself permission to feel.
- Balance Pushing and Patience: Healing is not linear. Move at your own pace, but also be open to gentle nudges forward.
- Practice Self-Compassion: Don’t judge yourself if you’re not progressing as quickly as you’d like.
Making the Invisible Visible
Daniel’s art has helped others—including his wife and other patients—understand his experiences. One painting depicts a traumatic event, and for the first time, his wife truly grasped the impact of that trauma.
- Why This Matters: Art Validates Experience: Even if others haven’t lived your exact story, your art can speak to them and help them feel less alone.
- Fosters Empathy: Sharing your work can help caregivers, friends, and healthcare providers better understand what you’re going through.
- Builds Community: Art shows, posting online, or even sharing with the group chat creates a sense of belonging and support.
Beyond Art: Embracing New Experiences
Daniel talks about how it’s important to do things that are intimidating but won’t hurt you. For him, it was ballroom dancing. At the start it was difficult, but as he learned, he found joy in it and it helped him break out of a rut.
Actionable Advice:
- Step Outside Your Comfort Zone: Growth often happens when you try something new, even if it feels scary.
- Find Joy in the Process: Focus on the experience, not perfection.
- Use Creativity as a Tool for Healing: Whether through art, movement, or another outlet, creative expression can foster resilience and hope.
Practical Guide: How to Start Your Own Healing Art Practice
- Gather Materials: Use what you have—paper, pens, markers, or a digital drawing app.
- Set an Intention: Decide what you want to express (pain, hope, anxiety, fear, grief).
- Start Simply: Don’t worry about the outcome. Begin with lines, shapes, or colors that match your feelings.
- Reflect on the Process: Notice how you feel as you create. Does drawing certain shapes release tension? Do colors bring up specific emotions?
- Keep It Private or Share?: Your art is for you. Share it if you want, but don’t feel obligated.
Final Thoughts to Keep in Mind
You don’t need to be an artist to benefit from art. The act of creating is itself an act of healing. Your story, expressed through your unique creativity, can help you—and others—feel seen and understood.
You are not alone. Your feelings are valid. And your art can be a powerful ally on your healing journey.