Exploring Emotions Through Art: Scribble Journey's Innovative Approach to Mental Health

As the world faces numerous challenges, from global conflicts and climate change to economic instability, mental health has become a significant concern for many. In response, an increasing number of people are turning to digital solutions to manage their mental health. The global mental health apps market, valued at $6.2 billion in 2023 according to Grand View Research, reflects this growing trend.

Among these digital solutions is Scribble Journey, an art therapy and mental health app designed to help users express and explore their emotions through creative activities. The startup recently introduced a new feature for iOS devices, enabling users to complete drawing activities within the app, rather than using a physical notebook.

Available for download on the App Store, Scribble Journey invites users to choose a daily intention, such as “Build Self-Love” or “Explore Emotions,” followed by an activity like “Emotion Color Wheel.” The app provides detailed instructions for users to doodle their feelings. For example, the “Emotion Color Wheel” guides users to draw a large circle divided into six sections, each labeled with an emotion and illustrated with representations of those feelings.

After completing their drawings, users are prompted to engage in guided journaling, reflecting on their artwork and the emotions it evoked. These entries are saved in their “Journey” log, allowing users to revisit and reflect on their previous entries.

The latest update to Scribble Journey integrates PencilKit, Apple’s drawing framework, allowing users to draw with their finger or an Apple Pencil directly within the app. This enhancement offers greater flexibility and convenience, particularly for users who prefer to journal on the go.

Alongside the PencilKit integration, the update introduces additional features, including an autosave function, daily suggestions, simplified navigation, and new activities. The app now boasts 21 activities, with more planned for future updates.

In a bid to attract more users, Scribble Journey has also reduced its subscription pricing. The annual subscription now costs $20, down by $16, and the monthly subscription is priced at $2.99. New users can also take advantage of a free trial: one month free for annual subscribers and two weeks free for monthly subscribers.

Founded by Stephanie Hubbard in 2020, Scribble Journey began as a set of activity cards sold on Etsy. The concept was born from Hubbard’s college thesis, developed after consulting with art therapists to manage her own stress during her studies.

“I was already doing a lot of drawing and journaling on my own to deal with my stress,” Hubbard explained. “I started looking at art therapy, interviewing therapists, reading case studies, and conducting extensive research on the benefits of art therapy.”

Art therapy, which dates back to the 1940s, is recognized as a beneficial and complementary form of therapy for individuals of all ages. It aims to reduce conflicts, enhance cognitive skills, build self-confidence, and improve emotional intelligence and social abilities.

Following the success of the physical Scribble Journey kits on Etsy, Hubbard sought to expand the concept’s reach by developing an app. She enlisted the help of her husband, Greg Hubbard, who had recently transitioned into a tech career after attending