Arts on Prescription in Norrbotten / Sweden

Long-term Sick Participants in Focus

The #ArtsOn Prescription (AoP) programme in northern Sweden is organised by Region Norrbotten in cooperation with Sunderby Folk High School. Targeting long-term sick individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or social isolation, the programme offers a broad range of creative art activities. Between 2023 and 2024, participants engaged in group-based sessions such as painting, working with natural materials, dance, singing, and visual arts. The emphasis was not on the final artwork, but on the process – conversations, reflections, and a sense of belonging fostered through shared experiences.

Referrals came from rehab coordinators at healthcare centres, local psychiatrists, and the coordination association in Region Norrbotten. Link workers at Region Norrbotten and Sunderby Folk High School supported participants by offering guidance, course information, and leading group reflections.

© Sunderby Folk High School

The heart of the programme lies in the creative process. Singing, for instance, was noted as uplifting and creating a sense of togetherness. Dance promoted freedom of movement without performance pressure, helping to ease tension and stress. Participants valued the safe, understanding environment, seeing it as vital to their recovery.

A New Path for Cross-Sector Collaboration

AoP aims to help healthcare providers, authorities, and cultural institutions engage individuals with mental health challenges in creative activities that support well-being. It bridges the gap between health and culture, promoting existing arts programmes – like those at Sunderby Folk High School – as complementary resources for mental health.

As the project enters its final phase, the focus is on long-term sustainability:

For some, the journey continues beyond the programme. Inspired participants have started a new cultural group through the adult education association ABF – showing how arts-based health initiatives can lead to lasting personal and social change.

Programme Manual Online

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