Cosplay As Therapy
While I’m sure that cosplay is probably not recognized by the medical community as a traditional form of therapy, many cosplayers do say they find it therapeutic. To be able to fully immerse oneself in the creation of costume project from beginning to end, not only gives one a wonderful sense of accomplishment, but it’s also an art form. Like any art form, cosplay brings a freedom. It’s a freedom to create and experiment. The freedom to dress up and express oneself and style. It’s the freedom to unleash one’s inner superhero. The freedom to just play.
Expression
Like art therapy, cosplay as therapy allows a person to express themselves through their art form. Cosplay can be taken even further than art, because a cosplayer doesn’t just create their work of art, they get to wear it as well and actually become their character. It’s both a way to express oneself, as well to escape the confines of ones own life. To be able see the world through another’s eyes, if only for a short time.
Stress
It can be a way to deal with stress. Working on a costume itself can be very relaxing (well, aside from those crazy all-nighters right before a convention, scurrying, crying, and sweating to finish a costume in time). To be able to focus so fully on one project allows the other things in one’s head to be put into perspective. It makes a wonderful distraction when you just need a break from the hectic times that can occur with everyday life.
Introverts
I find the process of creating a costume very freeing, but even just wearing a costume is a way to use cosplay as therapy. For introverts, like myself, it’s easy to use cosplay as therapy for social anxiety. When you’re cosplaying a character, you get to interact as that character.
You don’t have to be your own shy self, because you’re not yourself. You’re a character. It makes it much easier to socialize in situations that might otherwise be painfully awkward for introverts. For some introverts, cosplay can also give them their first feeling of being accepted in a social situation instead of as an outcast.
Fight The Villains
In other instances, when a cosplayer needs a break from the real world, a cosplayer can put on their costume and go fight their imaginary villains. It can be symbolic even. A way for the cosplayer to somewhat mentally fight off whatever “enemy” is troubling them in real life. Whether it be a pile of bills, disease, or just general stress, cosplay can help a person metaphorically fight off those “enemies.”
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this website is merely opinion. I am not a medical doctor or a scientist and this information should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your own doctor for medical advice. The information on this website is intended for informational purposes only. The information on this website should not be used for treatment or medical diagnosis. Always seek professional medical advice from your doctor before beginning any new practices.
By Amber Reifsteck, The Woodland Elf
The information provided on this website is for general information purposes only. If you choose to rely on the information on this website, you do so at your own risk and you assume responsibility for the results. (Full disclaimer here)
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