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DOH-Calabarzon distributes art therapy kits to Taal-affected kids

July 9, 2021 Jane Eleda 436 views

THE Department of Health (DOH) – Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) distributed art therapy kits to children in evacuation centers affected by the restive Taal Volcano and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Regional Mental Health Outcome coordinator Paulina Calo said the art therapy kits aim to provide therapeutic outlet for young people experiencing instability due to calamity and the present pandemic.

Calo, who led the distribution activity, said children also feel anxiety brought by the Taal eruption and the ongoing Covid scare.

“With their usual routine disrupted by the closing of schools and the increased worries and concerns from their families around them, they can be considerably upset and distressed,” Calo said.

“We have to ensure that kids also have ways to cope with the emotions that come during this new normal. And by exploring their creativity through art we can provide them a way to express their feelings,” she added.

Calo said they aim to deliver at least 500 art therapy kits to various evacuation centers in the towns of Agoncillo, Balayan and Balete in Batangas.

An art therapy kit includes a sketch pad, pencil, sharpener, eraser, crayons, watercolors and coloring books.

Art therapy is a type of therapy that uses art and artistic mediums to help people explore thoughts and emotions in unique and visually expressive ways.

“Recipients of the art therapy kits were grateful kits as they now have a creative outlet to process their emotions and channel their energy during their stay in evacuation centers,” Calo said.

According to her, art activities like drawing promotes calmness and peace of mind because it focuses one’s attention into something comforting.

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