Mental Health & Creative Wellbeing
Sometimes we need a little extra support, reassurance or inspiration.
Whether you’re experiencing OCD, anxiety, low mood or simply finding things difficult, we hope these resources help you feel a little less alone.
There is no pressure to explore everything. Take what feels helpful, leave what doesn’t, and remember that you deserve kindness and support exactly as you are.
OCD – Understanding & Support
OCD is more than being organised or liking things tidy. It can involve intrusive thoughts, distressing doubts, compulsions and a cycle of anxiety that can feel exhausting.
Helpful resources
OCD-UK
Information, support and advice for people affected by OCD.
https://www.ocduk.org/
OCD Action
Information, support groups and resources for people living with OCD.
https://ocdaction.org.uk/
NHS – Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd/
A gentle reminder
Intrusive thoughts do not define who you are.
If OCD is affecting your life, evidence-based treatment such as CBT with exposure and response prevention (ERP) can help. Crafting can be enjoyable, but it doesn’t replace OCD treatment.
Anxiety – When Everything Feels Too Much
Anxiety can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming.
You might experience racing thoughts, physical tension, sensory overload or a feeling that you need to escape.
Helpful resources
NHS – Anxiety disorders
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/anxiety-disorders/
Anxiety UK
https://www.anxietyuk.org.uk/
Mind – Anxiety and panic attacks
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/anxiety-and-panic-attacks/
A gentle grounding idea
Look around and name five things you can see, four things you can feel and three things you can hear.
You can adapt this to suit your sensory needs or skip it if focusing on sensations feels uncomfortable.
Low Mood – When Things Feel Heavy
Low mood can make it difficult to find motivation, enjoy things or manage everyday life.
You don’t need to force yourself to be positive, and small steps still count.
Helpful resources
NHS – Clinical depression
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/clinical-depression/
Mind – Depression
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/depression/
Samaritans
Someone to talk to, day or night.
https://www.samaritans.org/
Call 116 123 free in the UK and Ireland.
A gentle reminder
Rest is not failure.
You do not need to earn rest by being productive, and you don’t have to wait until things become unbearable to ask for help.
Gentle Craft Activities for Wellbeing
Creativity can offer enjoyment, self-expression, connection and a manageable activity to focus on.
There is no need to finish a project, make something beautiful or be good at art.
When you’re feeling anxious
- Colour a small section of a colouring page
- Try simple repetitive patterns or doodles
- Make a sensory collage using textures you enjoy
- Decorate a bookmark with calming colours
When your mood is low
- Make a tiny paper flower
- Choose three colours and paint abstract shapes
- Create a “things that help me” mini booklet
- Decorate a card for yourself or someone you care about
When you need something repetitive and familiar
- Try a few rows of crochet or knitting
- Sort beads or buttons by colour if this feels soothing
- Try simple origami or paper folding
- Make a friendship bracelet
When words are difficult
- Create a mood collage using colours, pictures and textures
- Draw your feelings as weather
- Make a visual “what I need today” card
- Use stickers or images instead of writing
When you have very little energy
- Colour just one shape
- Stick a few images onto paper
- Choose materials for a future project
- Simply sit with your craft supplies without needing to make anything
Creative inspiration
Crafts Council
https://www.craftscouncil.org.uk/
Canva
Create a colouring page or mood board.
https://www.canva.com/
Your Way Is Enough
At Create & Chatter, creativity isn’t about productivity, perfection or comparison.
It’s about having a space where you can explore, connect and take part in whatever way feels comfortable.
You can:
- Take breaks whenever you need
- Keep your camera off
- Participate quietly or through the chat
- Adapt activities to your energy and sensory needs
- Leave a project unfinished
You are allowed to have difficult days.
You are allowed to need support.
And you are worthy of connection even when you don’t feel like yourself.
Safe. Seen. Supported. Included.
Need more support?
These resources are intended to complement professional support, not replace it.
If you need urgent or professional support, visit our Need Support section for UK helplines and crisis information.
Create & Chatter resources are intended for general information and wellbeing support. They do not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or mental health support. Please choose what feels right for you and seek professional support if you are concerned about your physical or mental health.
Need more support? View UK helplines and support →