From Depressive to Expressive

“Expressive art therapy has helped me sleep better and my mood has improved. I became more relaxed after the therapy. For example before I was concerned about my sons’ mistakes or I couldn’t get enough rest. But now I can be more empathetic and think my kids are cute.”

“We had a blast on Sunday. Thank you all of ChickenSoup’s staff and the volunteers! We had a joyful and relaxing trip. I was grateful there’s a mentor who stayed with my older son throughout the whole event. I realized my son got along well with others and he became more positive after spending time with his mentor. I also noticed my younger son became very serious about family bonding activities as he was motivated by the rewards. I’m grateful that I met Michelle, another single mom of ChickenSoup families. I was inspired by her although we didn’t talk much.  I’m also interested to learn hair dressing and become a volunteer hairdresser like her in the future. Lastly I’m grateful for the big meal — we got to try many food that we’ve never had before!”

“Previously I would give orders to my older son, yell at him and even hit him. He is actually very well-behaved. I have improved a lot after attending the course from ChickenSoup’s in-house therapist, Kit. I even felt like I could reach the state of becoming “gentle and firm” for several times. For the first three sessions, I had lots of negative emotions. I cried and felt like there was a dark cloud hanging over me and I couldn’t breathe. In the last few sessions, I was able to sleep and accepted my own emotions. Now I’ve learned to pay more attention to my breathing, like when I’m on the bus. I do breathing exercise before bed. My mind feels clear now even though I haven’t been able to sleep for two nights.”

“Yesterday I attended a singing bowl course taught by ChickenSoup’s in-house therapist, Kit. I’m so glad I could make it to class and had the opportunity to meet different people and learn new things. I’m very grateful that a special child care centre was able to look after my younger son. He got along well with other kids of his similar age and ability. Yesterday when I picked him up he kept asking me when he could come back. It seems like he was having a good time. The staff from ChickenSoup team also helped pick my older son up to go to STEM class. Perfect timing! Thank you everyone!”