Mental health, art and creativity: re-discover the child within

Purpose The purpose of this paper was to investigate, using a "dipole model" of the brain as the foundation, if there could be a common denominator between the different concepts of mental health, art and creativity. Design/methodology/approach After a discussion of the three concepts of mental health, art and creativity, respectively, they were elaborated and compared in contrast to Bergstrom's "dipole model" of the brain with the aim to look for a common denominator. Findings The findings tentatively suggest that playfulness over the lifespan might be a common denominator for the gaining and keeping of mental health. Research limitations/implications The author presents his personal perspective on these topics. There are many contrasting ways to view them. Practical implications A recognition of the importance of lifelong playing might contribute to improved mental health. Social implications Allowing a more playful behaviour through the lifespan could have a healthy impact for a society. Originality/value This conceptual paper might possibly add to the present literature through its emphasis on the importance of lifelong playfulness, which is suggested to be added within the frames of the concepts of mental health, art and creativity.