It was disheartening to learn about the closure of the therapeutic recreation program at the University of Southern Maine. The field of arts in health is growing internationally, supported by research funding and expanding community programs. While I understand that the major was unsustainable with current enrollment, USM missed an opportunity to promote the program or partner across departments (nursing, social work, behavioral sciences, art, dance and music) to highlight job opportunities and collaborative research.

At a time when Maine faces deep cuts to arts education, closures of psychiatric facilities and day programs, and a shortage of community resources for people with disabilities, we need more opportunities for expression, social connection and healing — not fewer. The tech sector may be shiny, but what people across Maine truly need is face-to-face care.

When home health services are inaccessible and insurance coverage for physical, occupational or speech therapy runs out, arts-based therapy can be a lifeline — and can even lower long-term medical costs. Let’s stop laughing at the arts and remember their essential role in preventive, community-based care.

Kate Beever, MA, MT-BC
Portland