Digital drawing helps to cope with stress

It is known that coloring in itself helps improve well‑being: it shifts attention to a simple task, distracts from anxious thoughts, and creates a sense of calm. Scientists wanted to find out whether coloring in apps on digital devices would have the same effect.

Almost 300 university students took part in the experiment. Over the course of two weeks, they completed a mindful coloring program — at least six sessions. Approximately half of the participants worked with regular colored pencils and paper, while the other half used digital coloring apps. Before and after the program, students filled out questionnaires in which they assessed their well‑being, stress levels, symptoms of anxiety and depression, and the degree of mindfulness.

The results were comparable in both groups: students reported a significant improvement across all parameters — reduced stress, increased mindfulness, and fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety. A particularly noticeable effect was observed in those who, prior to the program, rated their psychological state as more severe.

Coloring is an accessible and inexpensive way to support psychological well‑being. At the same time, digital devices are often more accessible to students today than paper and pencils. The fact that the digital format has proven to be no less effective is important from a practical standpoint: it allows us to shift the focus from discussing only the risks associated with gadgets to exploring opportunities for their beneficial use.