Whether you're experiencing grief or want to create a healthier relationship with your partner through gift-giving, knitting or crocheting can help. Even if you're a beginner to either of these practices, licensed psychologist Dr. Brandy Smith, PhD, says that each of these can create a safe, peaceful environment, especially when you set aside even 20 or 30 minutes a day to do it.
Related: Psychologist Reveals That People Who Write Out To-Do Lists by Hand Share These 7 Unique Traits
"Can knitting be beneficial and help one with trauma? Yes, but I would not go so far as to say it is going to 'heal' trauma on its own," she tells Parade.
"Some people report that when they knit, it creates a calm within their nervous system, and since trauma can be connected to the nervous system, knitting can connect on that level for some people," she further explains.
"Both can help someone who is experiencing trauma (and in general)," she shares. "It can be meditative for some people because of the repetition, which is another potential benefit in general and for people navigating trauma."
Is Crocheting Good for Mental Health?
Abraham Gonzalez Fernandez/Getty Images
She also reports crocheting and knitting as helpful for anxiety because it gives you something to focus your energy on. "That can help with aspects of both depression and anxiety," she adds.
While there hasn't been much scientific research done on whether knitting and crocheting are good for ADHD directly, there are studies that report it can result in an increase of the alerting and orienting networks of the brain, even after a brief, single session. The study also explores the possibility that these types of activities, along with meditation, can pave the way for neurorehabilitation (specialized programs designed to improve function and reduce symptoms experienced by individuals with nervous system disorders or injuries).
8 Psychological Benefits of Knitting and Crocheting, According to a Psychologist
Finding activities to do outside of work is important for your mental health. Knitting or crocheting provides a low-lift way to keep yourself busy.
2. It's beneficial for people who are goal-oriented
If you're someone who likes to have an end result in mind, Dr. Smith says this is the perfect activity for you.
As Dr. Smith mentioned above, the repetitive nature of knitting and crocheting can create a sense of calm—especially if you've had a long or stressful day.
4. It provides you with something to focus on
Studies show that focusing your energy and attention on a specific activity like knitting or crocheting can really help to increase alerting and orienting networks in the brain. This can be beneficial to everyone—especially if you find yourself losing focus throughout your day or being less productive than you'd like to be.
While knitting or crocheting definitely requires you to stay focused in the moment, Dr. Smith says that, surprisingly, it can help you focus elsewhere, too.
As an example, she says that someone may bring their knitting or crocheting project to meetings or a social gathering.
6. It can serve as an act of love or a gift-giving opportunity
It's a great motivator to work on a gift for someone else. Dr. Smith says this can be a huge benefit of learning to knit or crochet.
Not only are crocheting and knitting great for focus, but they can also be a great creative outlet outside of your regular everyday activities.
8. It provides sensory engagement
Because knitting and crocheting are such hands-on activities, Dr. Smith says it provides yet another benefit for your brain.
Up Next:
Related: The 16 Best ‘Analog Hobbies’ to Pick Up in 2026
Sources:
Dr. Brandy Smith, PhD, is a licensed psychologist with Thriveworks in Birmingham, AL.“Crochet … a little hook to improve attention?” medRxivHence then, the article about 8 psychological benefits of knitting and crocheting according to a psychologist was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( 8 Psychological Benefits of Knitting and Crocheting, According to a Psychologist )
Also on site :