Archaeology is the study of human activity through the excavation, recovery, and analysis of material culture. However, there is more to archaeology than meets the eye. It’s not just about uncovering stories from the past; it can also shape our present and future. Engaging in archaeological activities, such as digging and studying artefacts, can have a positive impact on mental well-being by giving a sense of purpose and reducing stress. Additionally, preserving cultural heritage through archaeology can provide people with a sense of belonging and emotional stability. For marginalised groups especially, archaeology can help reclaim and affirm cultural histories, contributing to psychological healing and empowerment. Educational programs and workshops can use archaeology to raise awareness about mental health and reduce stigma. There are also specific archaeology programs designed to help veterans or individuals with PTSD. Collaborations between archaeologists, psychologists, and other scholars can create a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between past human behaviours and mental health. So, as we have gathered, Archaeology indeed has a significant impact on mental health and well-being, but in this blog post let us delve deeper into how archaeology specifically makes people feel and what aspects of it they enjoy. What motivates people to keep coming back to participate in archaeology?
Engaging in archaeology can give people and groups a sense of purpose and accomplishment for several reasons. Firstly, uncovering artefacts, structures, and other remnants of past civilisations helps us understand human history better. This can make participants feel like their efforts are valuable and may lead to important historical discoveries. Additionally, archaeological work often involves finding and preserving physical artefacts. Seeing the actual results of their work, such as an ancient tool or pottery, can feel like a real achievement. Archaeologists and volunteers also have to solve complex puzzles and put pieces together to create a timeline of the past, which needs critical thinking and perseverance, and overcoming these challenges can make individuals and groups feel a sense of accomplishment. Another reason that Archaeology can create a sense of purpose and accomplishment is that archaeological projects often take months or years, allowing participants to set long-term goals and achieve milestones. Completing an excavation season, publishing findings, or opening a museum exhibit based on their work are significant achievements that provide long-lasting satisfaction. Furthermore, archaeologists often share their findings with the community through public outreach and education which can be highly rewarding and remind them of the purpose of their work. Understanding and interpreting historical contexts help people see the connections between past and present, providing a deeper understanding of contemporary issues and a sense of continuity and identity which can contribute to a purposeful life. All in all, many archaeological projects involve collaboration with local communities. This creates a shared sense of purpose and achievement by building relationships, involving community members, and sharing discoveries with them.
There has been a lot of scientific literature which has revealed the positive impact of engaging in archaeology on diverse populations, including those dealing with PTSD, mental illness, disabilities, and elderly individuals facing Alzheimer’s and dementia. Inclusive archaeology involves collaboration between archaeologists, special education experts, associations, volunteers, and researchers specialising in assessing psychological and physical impacts, often partnering with treatment centres. This approach has led to groundbreaking initiatives, such as integrating public archaeology into mental health support programs in Great Britain since 2011, aligning with the NHS Long Term Plan 2019. Recognising the vital role of archaeological participation in promoting well-being, local services beyond clinics, such as programs organised by museums and archaeological sites, have been emphasised.
Especially since the challenges posed by events like the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of well-being as a significant factor in improving social progress has become increasingly evident. The Heritage Alliance UK annual report of 2020 highlights the crucial role of well-being when referring to societal health, especially during times of crisis. Things like the Breaking Ground Heritage (BGH) project have emerged and been created to address increasing mental health concerns, which has resulted in over 35 Rehabilitation Archaeology programs targeting veterans with PTSD since 2015 and have been in collaboration with top leading universities. These efforts, supported by a psychological approach to well-being assessment, have shown promising outcomes, as evidenced by studies published in well-known journals, illustrating significant improvements in mental health indicators among participants. The many studies that have taken place to explore the impact of archaeology on mental health have been done through surveys, interviews, and participant observations. Although more research is necessary to comprehend the mechanisms that underly these benefits fully, the increasing evidence suggests that archaeology has a positive impact on mental well-being.
As we move forward, there is a growing need for initiatives that effectively combine historical interpretation and archaeological movements with the concerns of modern society. This demand aligns closely with global agendas. These agendas support inclusive and impactful projects that recognise the complexities of our past and actively engage with the present challenges. The call for such movements and initiatives arises from an understanding of the interconnectedness between heritage preservation, societal well-being, and sustainable development goals. This involves developing programs and projects that uncover the stories of our ancestors and use these narratives to address contemporary issues such as mental health, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. These ideas require a holistic approach, drawing on diverse perspectives and expertise to ensure their relevance and effectiveness across various cultural, social, and economic contexts. In addition, they must be supported by well-thought-through assessment methods and feedback, which will allow for continuous evaluation and improvement based on real-world outcomes and community input. By embracing and using this forward-thinking approach, we can use the power of archaeology and heritage to not only deepen our understanding of the past but also actively shape a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future for generations to come. In doing so, we honour the legacies of those who came before us and pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous society for all.
Author: Freya Slape