Healing Through Art: The Growing Momentum of Creative Therapies for Veterans
The recent success of Eastern Oklahoma VA Veterans at the 2025 National Veterans Creative Arts Competition – Nichole Montgomery’s first-place win in mixed media and Michelle Hendrickson’s third-place finish in beadwork – highlights a powerful trend: the increasing recognition of art as a vital therapeutic outlet for those who have served. This isn’t simply about showcasing talent. it’s about harnessing the restorative power of creativity to address the complex challenges faced by veterans.
The Rise of Arts-Based Therapies in Veteran Care
For decades, traditional talk therapy and medication have been the cornerstones of mental health treatment for veterans. However, a growing body of research demonstrates the unique benefits of creative arts therapies – including visual arts, music therapy, drama therapy, and writing – in addressing conditions like PTSD, anxiety, depression, and traumatic brain injury. These therapies provide alternative avenues for self-expression, emotional processing, and building resilience.
The Eastern Oklahoma VA Health Care System’s local competition, which served as a qualifying event for the national competition, exemplifies this proactive approach. Over 7,000 entries from more than 4,500 veterans across 124 VA facilities participated in the 2025 National Veterans Creative Arts Competition, demonstrating widespread engagement.
Beyond Expression: The Neurological Benefits of Art
The benefits extend beyond simply providing an outlet for emotions. Neuroscience reveals that engaging in creative activities can physically alter the brain, strengthening neural pathways associated with emotional regulation, cognitive function, and stress reduction. Art-making can activate the reward centers of the brain, releasing dopamine and promoting feelings of well-being. This is particularly important for veterans who may struggle with emotional numbness or difficulty experiencing joy.
Pro Tip: Even simple creative activities, like coloring or doodling, can have a measurable positive impact on mood and stress levels. Veterans don’t need to be “artists” to benefit from these techniques.
The National Veterans Creative Arts Festival: A Showcase and a Catalyst
The National Veterans Creative Arts Festival, where Nichole Montgomery will represent the Eastern Oklahoma VA in June 2026, is more than just an exhibition. It’s a celebration of veteran creativity, a platform for healing, and a catalyst for continued engagement in the arts. The festival provides a supportive community where veterans can connect with peers, share their experiences, and receive recognition for their artistic achievements.
Opportunities for Veteran Artists: Getting Involved
Veterans interested in participating in the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival can submit artwork completed after October 1, 2025, with a local submission deadline of July 31, 2026. The Eastern Oklahoma VA Creative Arts Committee can provide further information. Contact them at [email protected] or call 918-781-3643, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. To 4:30 p.m. CT.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Creative Arts in Veteran Wellness
The momentum behind arts-based therapies for veterans is likely to continue growing. Increased awareness, coupled with ongoing research demonstrating their effectiveness, will likely lead to greater integration of these therapies into mainstream veteran care. We can anticipate:
- Expanded Funding: Increased investment in creative arts programs within VA facilities and community-based organizations.
- Telehealth Integration: The development of virtual art therapy programs to reach veterans in remote areas or those with limited mobility.
- Personalized Approaches: Tailoring creative arts interventions to meet the specific needs and preferences of individual veterans.
FAQ
Q: Is artistic talent required to participate in these programs?
A: No, artistic skill is not a requirement. The focus is on the process of creation, not the final product.
Q: What types of art are accepted in the National Veterans Creative Arts Competition?
A: A wide range of art forms are accepted, including painting, sculpture, photography, writing, music, and crafts like beadwork.
Q: Where can I find more information about the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival?
A: You can find more information at https://department.va.gov/veteran-sports/national-veterans-creative-arts-festival/.
Did you know? Art therapy can be particularly beneficial for veterans who struggle to verbalize their experiences due to trauma.
We encourage you to explore the resources available and consider the transformative power of art. Share this article with veterans and their families, and let’s continue to support these vital programs. What are your thoughts on the role of art in healing? Leave a comment below!
