How Artists Can Use Empathy and Sensitivity to Manage Anxiety & Depression

Written by Jana Tosic 

If you are an empathic artist, you probably feel emotions more deeply than most people (BMC Medical Education). This strong emotional connection helps you create art that is powerful and real. But it can also be hard to handle. Constantly picking up on the emotions of people around you can sometimes lead to stress and anxiety, especially if you don’t have healthy ways to deal with them.
If you’re feeling weighed down by your own sensitivity, remember—you’re not alone. The best part? Your empathy can be a source of strength and healing, not just pain. 
In this guide, we’ll show you how to use your natural gifts to manage anxiety and depression and support your mental health.
Why Sensitivity and Empathy Can Lead to Anxiety & DepressionEven though scientists don’t fully understand why some people with high empathy develop anxiety, research does give us clues. A study from 2018 looked at 840 people and found that those with strong empathy were more likely to experience anxiety or depression (Springer). 
But here’s an important point: not everyone with high empathy felt this way. People who knew how to manage their emotions had lower levels of anxiety (Springer). 
Here are some possible reasons why empathy can lead to anxiety and depression:

• Absorbing Emotions: If you’re around anxious or stressed people, you might start to feel anxious yourself because you absorb their feelings.
• Feeling Overloaded: Picking up on strong emotions from others can make you feel like there’s too much to handle, which can be stressful.
• Worrying About Motives: You might notice when someone is upset or negative and start worrying about why they feel that way or if it’s something to do with you.
• Fear of Judgment: Empathetic people often pick up on others’ opinions or judgments. This can make social situations feel more stressful and lead to social anxiety.
• Caring Too Much: When you sense that someone else is struggling or feeling down, you might worry about them constantly. This can make you feel drained and anxious.

However, not every sensitive artist feels anxious. While having strong empathy can make you more likely to feel overwhelmed, it doesn’t guarantee you will. 
The main factor is learning how to manage your emotions to feel less anxious and depressed. We’ll dive into these tools and strategies in the next section.
How to Turn Empathy Into a Strength to Manage Anxiety and DepressionYou can turn empathy into a strength by practicing self-care, setting boundaries, and using your art to express emotions. These steps help you manage anxiety and depression by using your natural sensitivity in a positive way:
Practice Self-EmpathySelf-empathy means treating yourself with kindness when you feel anxious or sad. Instead of pushing away your feelings, acknowledge them. When you’re overwhelmed, say to yourself, “It’s okay to feel this way. I care deeply, and that’s why I feel so much.” Accepting your feelings without judgment helps you take control and be kinder to yourself.
Key Points:

• Acknowledge your emotions instead of hiding or ignoring them.
• Be patient with yourself during tough times—remember, your sensitivity is a gift.

Use Your Art to Connect and HealOne of the best ways to turn your empathy into a strength is through your art. Create pieces that tell stories or express emotions. This way, you not only help yourself but also connect with others who might be feeling the same way. Your art can make someone feel seen, understood, and less alone.
Key Points:

• Express your emotions through your work—your art has the power to connect and heal.
• Know that your work can make a difference in someone else’s life.

Make Art for Positive ChangeYou can use your sensitivity and empathy to create meaningful art that inspires change. Whether raising awareness about an important issue or sharing your personal story, your art can be a tool for making the world a better place. Knowing your art can inspire others gives it more purpose, which can ease anxiety and increase confidence.
Key Points:

• Create with purpose—your work can raise awareness or spark positive change.
• Feel empowered by knowing that your art can inspire and help others.

Create Mindful MomentsMindfulness can help you manage your anxiety by focusing on the present moment. When emotions become overwhelming, taking a moment to center yourself can be incredibly grounding. Practice techniques like deep breathing, guided meditation, or simply paying attention to your senses to calm your mind.
Key Points:

• Deep breathing—inhale slowly, hold for a moment, and exhale slowly.
• Notice your surroundings—take in what you see, hear, and feel to stay present.

Set Healthy BoundariesAs an empathetic artist, you may feel like you need to help everyone or be constantly available to others. But it’s important to set boundaries to protect your mental health. Saying "no" when necessary allows you to recharge and avoid burnout.
Key Points:

• Take breaks from social situations when you feel drained.
• Set time aside for yourself without guilt.
• Learn to say "no" to things that drain your energy.

Balance Rest and WorkIt’s easy to get lost in your art and forget to rest. But taking time away from your work is crucial for your mental health. When you rest, you return to your creative process with a refreshed mind and a more balanced perspective.
Key Points:

• Schedule time to rest—take regular breaks to avoid burnout.
• Take care of your body—for example, get enough sleep and eat well.

Talk to a TherapistA therapist can help you understand your sensitivity and how it relates to your mental health. They can teach you strategies to manage anxiety and help you explore why you feel so deeply. Talking to a professional can provide valuable insights and teach you healthier coping methods.
Key Points:

• Therapy can offer support when managing anxiety.
• Learn how to process your emotions with a therapist’s help.

Feeling overwhelmed? 
Contact our CMHC counselors for support and start feeling better today.

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