Using arts to improve mental health care in the US
Official title: Personalized arts prescriptions for behavioral health challenges in the US
Funded at Socialrx INC · NIH-11006635 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how using art and cultural activities can help people with anxiety and depression feel better and connect with their community, making mental health care more personal and supportive.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Socialrx INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | September 4, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $241,102 |
| NIH project number | 1R43AT013060-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11006635 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing mental health challenges, such as anxiety or depression, who are seeking alternative or complementary treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with severe mental health conditions requiring immediate medical intervention may not benefit from this arts-based approach.
What this research studies
This research aims to address the growing mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, by integrating arts and cultural activities into healthcare. It focuses on social prescribing, a method that connects patients with community resources to enhance their well-being. By leveraging the benefits of art therapy and cultural engagement, the project seeks to create a more holistic approach to mental health care, making it more accessible and person-centered. The research will explore how these arts prescriptions can improve mental health outcomes and foster social connections among patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide innovative and effective mental health care solutions that enhance patient engagement and well-being.
How similar studies have gone: Similar approaches in other countries have shown success in integrating arts into healthcare, indicating potential for positive outcomes in the US as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Socialrx INC
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bailey, Lucy — Socialrx INC
- Study coordinator: Bailey, Lucy
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.