The Art of Growing Up: Play, Grief, and Healing Through Creativity

Play And Creative Arts Therapy

I have observed that young people at the high school level are having a difficult time navigating the pressures of adolescence, and many feel ill-prepared for the social expectations that are placed on them, especially in Year 7. It is not uncommon for young people to talk about the sadness they feel growing up. For some, moving to a small school environment where they know everyone to a larger school where they feel alone is a cause. Others talk about the grief and loss of abandoning play and pretend sooner than they would have liked. They tell me that they look forward to getting home so they can play with their younger siblings, and they say this feels comforting for them.

Indeed, play is essential for all of us. Engaging in play at all ages helps to reduce stress, increase creativity, regulate our emotions, stimulate our minds, and is a fun way to be in the moment. Play isn’t just for children—it’s an essential human experience that continues to serve us at every stage of life. Whether it’s through creative expression, games, or physical activity, play helps us stay connected to our joy, our imagination, and our inner selves.

“We don’t stop playing because we’re old; we grow old because we stop playing.” – George Bernard Shaw

Yet, as children grow older, the pressures of school, social expectations, and the demands of ‘maturity’ often push the act of play to the back burner. For many young people, the transition from primary to secondary school brings about a loss of the carefree activities they once enjoyed. Suddenly, they are thrust into a world of more serious academic demands, complex social dynamics, and a heightened sense of self-awareness. These changes can be overwhelming, and it’s no surprise that many adolescents feel isolated or disconnected.

The Grief of Letting Go of Play

One of the most poignant themes I’ve encountered in my work with young people is the grief that comes with letting go of play. At a time when they are still grappling with who they are, many young people find themselves facing a loss they weren’t quite ready for: the loss of their playful selves. This often manifests as a sense of sadness or longing for simpler times when play was the natural way to explore the world and express emotions.

For those in Year 7, in particular, the challenge of navigating this new phase of life is heightened. It’s a time when they are not quite children anymore, but not quite teenagers either. They are caught in a space where they are beginning to understand the adult world while still needing the comfort and security that play provides. Unfortunately, this is also the time when society’s expectations for them to “grow up” become more intense. The result? A sense of loss that many don’t know how to navigate.

One of the ways young people try to cope with this is by finding ways to return to play, often in private spaces like playing with younger siblings or engaging in creative activities at home. The simple act of playing is not just about having fun—it’s about reclaiming something that feels lost. The joy they find in these moments isn’t just a temporary escape; it’s a chance to reconnect with a part of themselves that is still very much alive and in need of nurturing.

Creative Arts Therapy: Reclaiming the Power of Play

This is where Creative Arts Therapy comes in. It offers a beautiful way for young people (and people of all ages) to reclaim their creative selves. Creative Arts Therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses the creative process to help individuals express, explore, and process their emotions. Unlike traditional talk therapy, it does not rely on words alone. Instead, it opens the door to expression through music, movement, art, drama, and more. This method can be particularly powerful for young people who may struggle to express themselves verbally, or for those who are not yet ready to articulate their feelings in the conventional sense.

The beauty of Creative Arts Therapy is that it is accessible for everyone, regardless of artistic skill. It encourages spontaneity and adaptability, allowing each person to engage with it in a way that feels right for them. Whether you are an accomplished artist or someone who feels more comfortable making squiggles and coloring shapes, Creative Arts Therapy creates a space for authentic self-expression without judgment or expectation.

In Creative Arts Therapy, the process itself is the focus—not the product. This focus on the journey, rather than the end result, allows for a deep exploration of emotions and experiences in a way that feels safe, comforting, and non-threatening. It also creates an opportunity for play in a way that is uniquely therapeutic. Through art, drama, music, and other forms of expression, young people can reconnect with that sense of playfulness they may have lost and use it as a tool for emotional regulation and self-discovery.

The Benefits of Play and Creative Arts Therapy

Engaging in Creative Arts Therapy brings with it many benefits, particularly for adolescents navigating the complexities of their emotions. First, it provides an outlet for stress and anxiety, helping young people manage their feelings in healthy, productive ways. It also stimulates creativity, which can be a powerful tool for problem-solving and self-expression. By engaging in these creative practices, young people can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their emotions, all while engaging in the playful activities that are so crucial to their well-being.

Additionally, Creative Arts Therapy fosters a sense of empowerment. It encourages young people to take ownership of their emotional journey and empowers them to find their voice, both literally and figuratively. Whether through the strokes of a paintbrush, the rhythm of a drum, or the movement of their body, they are learning to communicate and express themselves in new ways.

“Art washes from the soul the dust of everyday life.”— Pablo Picasso

As we continue to support young people in their journey through adolescence, it’s essential that we recognize the power of play and creative expression in their emotional and mental health. Creative Arts Therapy offers a path forward—one where young people can reclaim their joy, explore their emotions, and process the complex changes they are experiencing. By encouraging the practice of play, whether through traditional forms or creative arts, it gives young people the tools to navigate adolescence with resilience, creativity, and hope.

Ultimately, the more we embrace the power of play, the more we ensure that we don’t grow old because we stopped playing. Instead, we grow older with the wisdom that play and creativity are integral to the human experience, no matter our age.

Book Your Consultation 

We offer a 15-minute obligation-free consultation to discuss your needs and determine if Art Therapy is the right fit for you. Contact us today to schedule your appointment. 

You’re Not Alone 

Taking the first step towards healing can feel daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Centre Self, your wellbeing is our priority. Let’s embark on this journey together. 

For more information or to book your consultation, please visit our website at centreself.com.au or call us directly. 

We’re here to help you embrace a brighter future. Let’s take these steps together.