| Focus 3/3 | Art therapy: artistic practices at the heart of planetary health

Art therapy: a proposed roadmap inspired by WHO guidelines

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Figure 1. Proposed 12–36-month roadmap inspired by WHO guidelines [Source © Isabelle Wachsmuth]
A guidance document published by the WHO Regional Office for Europe in 2026 [1] broadens the discussion to include the potential contributions of the arts and culture in addressing the health impacts of climate change (see Climate change: what are the effects on our health?). The WHO emphasises that health does not depend solely on biomedical interventions, but also on social, cultural, behavioural and environmental factors. Drawing on several of its recent guidelines, we propose a strategy aimed at integrating art therapy and, more broadly, artistic practices into planetary health strategies (Figure 1).

During the first twelve months, activities will focus on mapping existing initiatives, setting up pilot workshops in hospitals, schools and community centres, and providing joint training for healthcare professionals and artists. This initial phase will also enable the first assessments of the effects on well-being and social inclusion to be carried out.

By 24 months, the scheme could be extended to the regional level, with the gradual integration of art therapy into primary care and social prescription schemes. Long-term partnerships between the cultural, health and environmental sectors could be consolidated, while evaluations could be broadened to measure patient-reported outcomes (PROs), social benefits and environmental co-benefits.

By 36 months, the aim would be to ensure the programme’s long-term sustainability through sustainable funding models and its integration into public policy. This final stage would also involve the development of methodological guidelines, best-practice frameworks and university-level training initiatives. Ultimately, it could contribute to international initiatives, such as international programmes and policy frameworks: WHO, IPBES (the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services) and UNESCO.

Notes & references

Thumbnail. Part from Figure 1. Proposed 12–36-month roadmap inspired by WHO guidelines [Source © Isabelle Wachsmuth]

[1] Role of the arts and culture in addressing the health impacts of climate change: Behavioural and Cultural Insights policy brief series, WHO Reference Number: WHO/EURO:2026-13261-53035-82772; https://www.who.int/europe/publications/i/item/WHO-EURO-2026-13261-53035-82772?utm_source=chatgpt.com