Research has shown that too little stress or stimulation can increase health risks. To determine the effectiveness of mild stimulation on the depression levels and feelings of self-worth of the elderly, 24 withdrawn nursing home residents participated in a non-judgemental 6-month art expression group. Half the group were assigned to a control condition. The experimental group met twice a week for 2 hours a day. The mild stimulus was provided by a local program known as Growth Through Art. Socialization and discussion were encouraged equally with expression through art. Pre- and post-testing of both groups with the Cattell Depression Scale and attendants' notes and anecdotal reporting showed the art activity inhibited depression, which increased significantly in the control group. Activity levels of participants in both the experimental and control groups remained about the same and there were no significant changes in self-concept. (JAC)