The Wellbeing and Arts, Culture and Creativity in the Waikato report explores the impact of arts, culture, and creativity on the overall well-being of Waikato residents. The report highlights that individuals who engage with arts and culture, whether through attendance, participation, or independent activities like reading and music, report higher levels of well-being. Key areas of impact include mental wellness, sense of belonging, and connection to community and culture. The report also emphasizes that engagement with arts and culture positively correlates with overall life satisfaction, regardless of the level of involvement.
The report identifies mental wellness as a priority need across the region, with many residents experiencing feelings of anxiety, anger, and sadness. Engaging with arts and culture, particularly in forms that promote self-expression, is noted as a potential way to improve mental wellness. Furthermore, the report discusses the value of increasing access to artistic and cultural activities, especially for those who feel disconnected from these opportunities.
The findings support the notion that the arts sector has a crucial role to play in addressing well-being challenges and creating more resilient and connected communities.
