Knitting Helps Mental Health

Study from University of Gothenburg

Interest in wool crafts has soared in recent times and shows no signs of slowing down. A 2024 study from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden showed crocheting and knitting helps mental health, providing a sense of calm, community and achievement.

1) Sense of Calm

The repetitive, rhythmic movement of the needles slows the mind down, creating a feeling of calm and ease. One participant in the study noted: “While my hands are busy, my mind slows to a crawl, and I’m actually able to think about one thing instead of twenty or thirty.”

Another noted ‘there was no room for negative thoughts when you had to focus on your wool craft.’

2) Sense of Community

The research also showed knitting and crotcheting with others positively effects our mood and coping ability.

Group events provides a place for learning and creativity. It gives the chance to socialise without demands; characterised by a sense of belonging, inclusion, acceptance and humour.

3) Sense of Achievement

The study also highlighted the feeling of accomplishment helped mental health by increasing confidence to complete a project, no matter how complex or simple. Experiencing an occupation that the participants could feel good about, boosted their confidence and self-worth.

This research is further backed up in the research and publication “Craft Psychology” from Dr Anne Kirketerp.

If you’ve yet to try needles and yarn, perhaps now’s the time!