TeenHealthFX - Answers - Do My Violent Drawings Mean I Am

Anger / Question
Published: March 23, 2009

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I draw violent pictures a lot, and it has never struck me as unusual or wrong, until the other day I mentioned it casually to my mom and she seemed shocked, muttering something about it being "unstable." That made me think. I draw characters impaled by swords or daggers, stabbed, murdered, bruised and bound, bleeding, and things of that nature. It helps me when I'm angry or lonely or want to cut, which, so far, I've never done. Of course I draw other things like realism too, but the violent drawings help me to cope when I'm down. So my question is, is drawing such things really "unstable" and do you think it will ultimately help or harm me?

Signed: Do My Violent Drawings Mean I Am

Dear Do My Violent Drawings Mean I Am,

TeenHealthFX would not say that these drawings mean that you are “unstable.” If anything it sounds like they help to keep you stable because you use art as a way to express very negative emotions. So rather than act out certain feelings in an unhealthy way (such as to self-cut), you put those feelings into drawings – a much healthier outlet than hurting yourself.

What we think these drawings do say about you is that you have a lot of anger inside of you. FX obviously has no idea what your anger is about, but we do think it might be helpful for you to have a consultation with a mental health professional to discuss this anger. You could show a therapist your drawings and talk about what causes you to feel angry and lonely. You are using a healthy coping mechanism for your negative emotions by using artwork as an outlet. But a therapist may be able to help you get to the source of your anger and loneliness so you will experience these feelings less and not have to resort to violent drawings because you are generally feeling less angry.

If you live in northern New Jersey and need help finding a therapist you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 973-247-1400. Outside of this area you can log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website for referrals in your area. You can also contact your insurance company to get a list of in-network mental health providers or check with your school social worker or psychologist to get a list of referrals in your area.

Signed: TeenHealthFX