The effect of mandala coloring and free coloring on the happiness in veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder in the Covid-19 pandemic: a randomized clinical trial
- PMID: 38918742
- PMCID: PMC11197346
- DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05886-x
The effect of mandala coloring and free coloring on the happiness in veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder in the Covid-19 pandemic: a randomized clinical trial
Abstract
Background: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can lead to complications such as depression and grief, which are more prevalent in veterans than in the general population. Recently, art-making, including mandala coloring, has gained attention as a potential treatment for PTSD patients.
Methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 84 male veterans diagnosed with PTSD and hospitalized at the Milad Psychiatric Center in Tehran, Iran. The patients were recruited using a convenience sampling method and were assigned to either the mandala coloring group or the free coloring group. The Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist DSM-5 and the Oxford Happiness Scale were used to collect data. The intervention group colored mandala designs, while the control group colored squares freely. Coloring was done twice a week for three weeks.
Results: The mean baseline happiness scores did not differ significantly between mandala coloring group and free coloring group (p = 0.376). However, at the end of study, happiness scores were significantly higher in mandala coloring group than in free coloring group (p < 0.001). After the intervention, happiness score of both groups increased significantly (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: Both coloring methods increased veterans' happiness scores; however, mandala coloring was more effective than free coloring. It is recommended that art-making be added to conventional treatments for veterans with PTSD.
Trial registration: This study was registered in Iranian Registry of clinical trials (No. IRCT20210604051491N1, 29/08/2021).
Keywords: Art; Happiness; Mandala; Painting; Post-traumatic; Stress disorder; Veterans.
© 2024. The Author(s).
Conflict of interest statement
The authors declare no competing interests.
References
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