Art Saves Lives: Toi Ora Creative Classes Relieve Strain On The Mental Health System

It costs just $60 for a person to attend a two-hour creative class at Toi Ora, a cost-effective and scientifically proven way to boost wellbeing, compared with an overnight stay in a psychiatric unit at around $2000.

In Auckland, where one in three adults experience mental health challenges, Toi Ora is a vital part of the recovery and wellbeing landscape, supporting and alleviating the mental health system.

Established in 1995 by people with lived experience of mental health challenges, Toi Ora now runs more than 20 creative classes each week from its Grey Lynn studio and offsite around Auckland, alongside a gallery space where artists can showcase their work.

Independent research shows Toi Ora’s programmes have a transformative impact. A QWB Lab report found participants experienced a 52% increase in happiness and a 48% reduction in anxiety. For nearly half, the wellbeing benefits lasted well beyond the class, with one in four reporting a ‘wellbeing lift’ that lasted a week or more.

This forms the basis of Toi Ora’s marketing and fundraising campaign Art is our Anchor calling on New Zealanders to support vital creative classes to enhance wellbeing.

Beyond the numbers are real people. Ross Berry, who joined Toi Ora during one of the most difficult times in his life, says: “Toi Ora gave me a sense of purpose, when I could have just as easily sunk and gone the other way.”

Other key findings include:

• Social connection saves lives – 30% of participants reported their biggest outcome was connecting with others, despite not expecting this.

• Art builds resilience – Over 80% said they learned new skills, improved their creative abilities, and felt inspired.

• Preventing harm – A Deloitte study estimated Toi Ora’s programmes prevented 24.5 cases of self-harm in a single year.

“Healing doesn’t always happen in a clinic. It can begin with a brushstroke, a melody, and a moment of shared creativity,” says Toi Ora Director Susanne Ritzenhoff.

With registrations doubling in the past year to 500 artists, demand is growing rapidly. Toi Ora is calling on New Zealanders to help sustain and expand these life-saving programmes.

Donate today: https://toiora.org.nz/art-is-our-anchor/

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