SALVATION THOUGH ART

How increase in fine arts programs can help prevent mass shootings

In the wake off all the mass shooting that have happened in the last five years, it would seem like the only viable answers left would be to start banning people from entering the country. And, while that may seem like a viable option to many people, there is an even better option. Putting people through fine arts programs.

Although it may seem odd that a major solution to a dangerous problem can be something as simple as art, singing, and writing, after further explanation it makes sense. The official term for this is Expressive Art Therapy. According to Psychology Today, its a program that combines psychology with the creative process to promote emotional growth and healing.

When we take this knowledge and apply it to ourselves, it makes sense. For many of us, we find comfort in things such as art, writing or sports. We get time to destress from all of our other issues in life such as school and work.

If the same thing can be used with more patients with mental illnesses, we can stop the root of causes people to shoot schools. We can protect the lives of everyone, and fix a problem before it even arises. It also lowers dependency on pills, and promotes learning new skills.

The only issue that arises from this is a lack of funding, which is something that President Trump has been planning to cut in his budget plan. A lack in funding for a program like this could potentially make it more difficult for patients to receive this kind of help. Furthermore it would make it more difficult for people to afford that kind of care in general, because private companies could put a huge price tag on that kind of service.

But there is another solution. The government could enforce that every student is required to take some type of fine arts class every year. With this all students would be able to destress from their regular school worries, and relax for an hour. It would also be free for most students who may not be able to afford a fancy help program.

All in all, this is a creative and innovative idea to help combat attacks across the nation. It would promote safety and encourage creativity. In a fast paced world like ours, those are two things that will never go out of style.

Zahra Soniwalla
Online Editor In Chief