1754 Virtual art therapy: meeting the psychosocial needs of children and young people with a long term health condition during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

<h3>Background</h3> Children and young people (CYP) with a long term condition (LTC) are known to have increased psychosocial needs. This is also true for siblings of CYP with a LTC. The current COVID-19 pandemic has had an adverse impact on the psycho-social wellbeing of CYP, especially those with a LTC and their siblings. This has resulted in an increase in demand for psychosocial support which has presented a challenge as to how these needs might be met. During the pandemic, a Children’s Hospital, in partnership with Teapot Trust (a charity providing art therapy) offered a virtual art therapy intervention to CYP with chronic kidney disease in order to support their psychosocial needs. The art therapy was delivered virtually via Zoom. <h3>Objectives</h3> To explore the feasibility and effectiveness of delivering a virtual art therapy intervention and measure the impact of the intervention on Children and young people psychosocial wellbeing. <h3>Methods</h3> The hospital MDT identified and shared referrals with the Teapot Trust art therapist. CYP completed a Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS) survey at the start and end of the intervention to assess impact on psychosocial wellbeing. From August – December 2020: 8 CYP (aged 6–14 years) received virtual art therapy support. Sessions were either delivered 1:1 (N=4) or as group therapy (N=4). The art therapist delivered the therapy via Zoom. All CYP received an individual art resource pack. Youth workers participated in sessions where considered helpful. CYPs needs were identified at their initial session and a support plan put in place. Progress was reviewed after 8 weeks and sessions extended if needed. At the end of the intervention CYP also completed an enjoyment feedback form. Parent feedback about their child’s well-being and enjoyment was collected at the end of the intervention. <h3>Results</h3> The CYP received a mean of 8 (range 6 – 18 weeks) sessions. CYP: N=8. 87.5% (N=7) completed the WEMWBS survey. Average WEMWBS score increased from 82.7 (high) at baseline to 91.3 (high) post intervention which is a positive change across the whole group. All 100% (N=7) showed improved self-esteem, improved mood, increased energy and motivation, and increased relaxation. Parent feedback: 62.5% (N=5) completed the feedback forms. 100% (N=5) responses were positive. CYP said <i>‘it helped me understand all those feelings that were hidden for such a long time.’</i> Parent feedback <i>‘the difference in R’s mental health from when she started the art therapy and finished was like night and day</i>’…… ‘<i>being very proactive in her own self-care, seemed happier ………extremely pleased with the result’.</i> <h3>Conclusions</h3> Delivery of a virtual art therapy intervention appears to support improvement of the psychosocial wellbeing of CYP. More research is needed to assess the effectiveness of virtual art therapy