Few people haven't had depression touch their lives in one way or another. This art journal prompt is meant as a method to help break free.

Depression is not an easy thing to get through, particularly if it not detected or if it is misdiagnosed. There are many different kinds of depression, so please be advised that this art journal prompt is not intended to cure or take the place of professional advice. Rather, it is meant to provide those who are suffering from depression a creative outlet that, hopefully, will bring them a step closer to resolution.

For this art journal prompt, you will need the following materials:

• Art journal
• Photographs or images of: ocean views, tree-lined views, mountain views, flower gardens, beach scenes, outdoor rooms, and peaceful retreats.
• Heavy-duty glue stick (typically found in the scrapbook section of most stores)
• Black fine-tipped sharpie (the smallest tip you can find)
• Glitter gel pens (as many colors as you can find)
• Black construction paper
• Straight edged scissors
• Ruler
• White milk-gel pen (or any pastel color)

Follow these simple instructions to complete this art journal prompt:

1. Open your art journal to the first blank page spread. Spread out all the photographs or images around your workspace so you can see each one. Sit for a moment and let your thoughts wander. You may wish to have some tea or any other of your favorite beverages nearby to help “drink in” the moment.
2. Take out the black construction paper and cut pieces out so they are creating a half-inch border around each of the images you have selected. Using the heavy-duty glue stick, affix each image to the black matte you created. Then, attach each to the pages of your art journal. Be sure to leave an inch or two of white space beside, above, or below each image. Do not be afraid to layer them over each other to create an interesting presentation. This may require the use of more than one page spread.
3. Use the white milk-gel pens to write on the black borders. Write out any thoughts that come to mind when looking at the images. Anything at all – there are no rules for content. If you are worried about your penmanship, write it out in pencil first and then trace over with the pen.
4. With the black sharpie, write on the blank areas of the page. Write your feelings associated with what is currently going on in your life. Why do you feel the way you do? Do you remember when these feelings started? Is there anyone you can talk to about this? What kind of plans have you been making to resolve this?

Repeat this art journal prompt as often as needed. If you are unable to find the images described above, flip through magazines and cut out other images that evoke a peaceful feeling. Another option is to find images online and print them out.

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