Creative MindSets in Libraries
NAMI connects creativity and mental health in a pilot program for young adults.
Today I’m really pleased to share this q&a with Danielle Thorton, a community health education coordinator with NAMI who is facilitating the Creative MindSets pilot program in public libraries in Minnesota. The importance of, and often the gap in, community-based, accessible, and affordable mental health resources particularly for teens and young adults is a theme I hear frequently in my work with libraries and communities. When there’s an interesting approach to this gap that really builds on existing assets, I’m all ears. Many thanks to Danielle for speaking with me!
Please introduce yourself and your role with NAMI in Minnesota.
My name is Danielle, and I am a Community Health Education Coordinator at NAMI Minnesota. In my role, I help develop and support educational programs that promote mental health awareness and provide resources to communities across the state.
Can you share a little about the impetus for the NAMI-facilitated Creative MindSets program?
Creative MindSets is a pilot program developed by NAMI National, and NAMI Minnesota is hosting sessions as part of this national initiative. The program was inspired by the Adobe x NAMI study, Creative Approaches for Managing Mental Health, which surveyed nearly 2,000 people ages 13 and older across the U.S. The study found that creativity can have a powerful positive impact on mental health.
Key findings include:
63% of participants said creativity improves their confidence in their abilities.
61% said creativity reduces feelings of stress or anxiety.
57% said creativity improves overall mental well-being.
The impact was especially meaningful for young people and individuals in the LGBTQ+ community.
Based on these findings, Creative MindSets was developed to intentionally use creativity as a tool to support mental wellness.
Was there a particular need or service gap that the pilot program is responding to?
Yes. The program responds to the need for accessible, community-based mental health supports that go beyond traditional services. Creative MindSets acknowledges the value of creative expression and provides funding and structured opportunities for people, especially young people, to engage in art as a way to support good mental health.
What is the structure of a Creative MindSets program or event right now?
The structure is simple and creativity-focused. Participants, primarily young people, are given about an hour to explore an art project. During that time, they are encouraged to connect their creative work to emotions and mental health themes in a supportive environment. Creativity is the main agenda, with gentle guidance around reflection and emotional awareness.
What makes public libraries a good fit for the pilot program?
This is the first time we are offering the program in public libraries, but they seem to be a strong fit because they allow us to meet people where they already are. Libraries often have the infrastructure to host community programming and frequently provide space at little or no cost. They are welcoming, accessible spaces that align well with the program’s goals.
Are there any plans or goals to make the Creative MindSets program more widely available after the pilot?
If the pilot is successful, I would hope that the program will expand and make mental wellness resources more accessible to more communities. Since Creative MindSets is a NAMI National initiative, decisions about broader expansion would be made at the national level, and I cannot speak specifically on their behalf.
NAMI is piloting Creative MindSets at many public libraries around the US. Check your library’s website or events calendar for local availability.