Article by Gail Lord and Lola Rasminsky, Contributors, Toronto Star. Published by Toronto Star. November 13, 2025.
Read the full article:https://www.thestar.com/opinion/contributors/how-the-arts-can-help-cure-the-loneliness-epidemic-its-called-a-social-prescription-and/article_e1deb8dd-d336-4c7d-8542-936bff83af68.html
Excerpt:
Imagine if arts programs were considered part of our national strategy to combat mental illness and loneliness?
Sound too costly and abstract?
What if we told you this innovative approach has reduced doctors’ appointments by as much as 40 per cent in the U. K.?
Now imagine the savings to our health system — and the new opportunities for our currently underfunded cultural sector — if some arts programs were linked to our health-care providers, highlighting the true value of the arts in our communities and to mental health.
This relatively new concept is known as social prescribing. It has been embraced in the United Kingdom and is gradually catching on in North America. This innovative approach allows doctors and medical professionals to “prescribe” participation in social, cultural or nature activities as an alternative or complement to pharmaceutical drugs and other therapeutic interventions.”