CULTURAL POLICY INSTRUMENTS RELATED TO WELL-BEING
There are many different types of well-being, such as physical well-being, mental well-being, emotional well-being, financial well-being, social well-being, cultural well-being, etc.
Physical well-being refers to an individual's overall physical health and fitness. This involves taking care of oneself by eating a balanced diet, regularly exercising, getting enough rest, and avoiding sickness and physical ailments.
The concept of mental well-being is related to an individual's emotional and psychological health. It encompasses having a positive attitude, being emotionally strong, having the capability to cope with stress, and a sense of life satisfaction.
One's emotional well-being is closely tied to their mental well-being and includes the capability to recognise, comprehend, and manage their emotions effectively. It entails having a balanced and healthy experience of a variety of emotions.
Financial well-being pertains to an individual's financial security and contentment with their financial circumstances. This encompasses having sufficient resources to fulfil basic necessities, the ability to handle financial pressure and plan for the future.
- A person's social well-being is determined by the quality of their social connections and relationships. It encompasses having encouraging and significant relationships with family, friends, coworkers, and the wider community.
- Cultural well-being recognises the importance of culture and identity in a person's life. Keeping cultural traditions and practices and feeling a sense of belonging to your cultural community are important aspects of cultural well-being.
- Some cultural policy instruments with potential positive impacts related to well-being include:
- Engaging in various artistic forms, such as visual arts, performing arts, literature, and music, can promote self-expression and creativity while reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Supporting arts and health programs, like music therapy, art therapy, and dance therapy, can improve individual well-being by providing creative outlets for self-expression.
- Offering mental health assistance and access to resources for artists and cultural workers can enhance their well-being and creativity, resulting in a livelier cultural landscape.
- Providing mentorship programs and skill-building opportunities for artists and cultural practitioners in the cultural field not only benefits them but also contributes to the overall vibrancy of the cultural ecosystem.
- Organizing cultural events, festivals, and exhibitions can unite people and create a sense of community. Participating in such events can help establish social connections and a sense of belonging, which are crucial for one's well-being.
- Utilizing digital platforms to make cultural content accessible to a broader audience. This can be especially useful during times when physical gatherings are limited, as it allows people to stay connected and engaged with cultural activities.
- Implementing policies that support social inclusion in cultural spaces and activities can lead to marginalised communities feeling valued and included. This fosters a sense of belonging and social connectedness, which is crucial for their overall wellbeing.
(PC, ITK)