#14 Economics of Wellbeing

This work explores the impact of expressive arts as an early intervention to enhance wellbeing over the life span. This report analyzes literature on how, beginning in childhood, art forms like drawing, painting, music, and performance can serve as an effective tool for wellbeing. Measured across child characteristics of the Life Course Model, clear benefits were identified for emotional health, behavioral health, and intellectual performance. Research gaps in long-term outcomes, sample sizes, and methodological rigor highlight the need for expanded policy, community, and research investment to sustain and scale these benefits.