Authors (including presenting author) :
Mui C(1), Law ST(1), Pun ML(1), Tse WY(1), Hung YY(1), Cheung HL(1)
Affiliation :
(1) Department of Psychiatry, Tai Po Hospital
Keyword 3: :
Mood regulation
Introduction :
Psychiatric inpatients often experience high levels of mood problems which can complicate treatment engagement and recovery. Zentangle, a mindfulness based art intervention that integrates structured repetitive patterns, requires no prior artistic experience and promotes relaxation, emotional regulation and present-moment awareness. Emerging evidence suggests that Zentangle may reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improve overall well-being and emotional regulation. However, its application among acute psychiatric inpatient settings remains under explored.
Objectives :
This study aims to implement a Zentangle program for psychiatric patients with mood problems to: (1) reduce stress and enhance mood by promoting relaxation and a sense of achievement, (2) enhance concentration and mindfulness through repetitive practice of drawing patterns, (3) enable participants to articulate their feelings through creative artistic expression, and (4) provide daytime engagement for resilience.
Methodology :
This quasi-experimental pilot study was conducted in an acute and a post-acute psychiatric ward. Eligible patients will be recruited by primary nurses or ward facilitators with patient’s consent. Participants will complete a pre-activity baseline assessment using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21). At least one session of Zentangle activity will be held every week. Attendance will be recorded to monitor engagement and compliance. Post-evaluation using the 5-point likert scale patient satisfaction survey and DASS-21 will be conducted weekly in acute ward and bi-weekly in post-acute ward according to the length of stay, with progress documented bi-weekly in care plans and monthly program review by ward facilitators. The pre-post design, combined with attendance tracking, will evaluate and the intervention’s therapeutic effects, acceptability and attrition rates in inpatient settings.
Result & Outcome :
The DASS-21 demonstrated significant reduction in stress and depression levels of participants in both acute and post-acute ward. There is no significant reduction in anxiety levels. Attendance records indicated high engagement with full attendance, and low attrition rate (< 10% drop out), reflecting strong interest and dedication to this activity. The dose-response relationship was not statistically significant. The patient satisfaction survey yielded highly positive feedback with average scores above 4 across the items. Higher attendance correlates with greater patient satisfaction and subjective feelings of symptoms relief.
