1
“Before joining Creative Alternatives I felt like I’d lost sense of who I was and like I was trapped in a dark place. Since taking part I can now see light again and have gained confidence in the person that I used to be. The creative process has helped me do that and I get lost in drawing and painting for hours on end. I now also feel confident that I can join new groups and meet new people. Without Creative Alternatives I honestly think I would still be at home feeling lost and alone in the darkness.”
2
“I feel stronger and more balanced, I have not had to go to the surgery since joining CA and have now discussed with my doctor about reduction in medication.”
3
“I am finding confidence to speak to strangers, to have opinions, and to find a little courage to face my fears. I am becoming more involved again and less withdrawn.”
4
“I just want you to know how special and important these arts workshops are to me. They are a lifeline. They are the only moments in a week when I feel free to share and communicate. They draw my emotions, and make me feel vulnerable but somehow safe too. They give me a confidence to try to express some of my fears and deepest feelings, and there are always people there who are willing to listen and encourage.”
5
“Creative Alternatives has been beneficial to me as it is totally away from the normal things I would do in everyday life. I find going to the classes therapeutic and relaxing, the staff and people who attend make you totally at ease.”
6
“I think this could be a real milestone for me. Everyone was so welcoming and kind, and I feel I made some real friends. I thoroughly enjoyed the workshops. As I mentioned to you, I’ve done a great deal of choral singing in the past, but it is something I haven’t felt able to do recently. To sing again in harmony from music felt wonderful, and was a very important step for me.”
7
“I have found that Creative Alternatives helped me prolong the time when I didn’t have to go onto an anti-depressant.”
8
“I have a better outlook on my life now and I realise there are other people like myself who are isolated. Creative Alternatives helped me move forward and ask for help. My mum died while I was on the programme. Creative Alternatives helped me while I was looking after her and it helped me deal with my loss of her.”
9
“I am going through a lot of stress in my private life. Amongst all the chaos Creative Alternatives has been a place where I can relax and have a different focus. It’s been a life-line to me, a real God send.”
