Creative Art therapy reduces anxiety, depression and builds students confidence - Helena Amoah

In an effort to promote emotional well-being and personal growth among the youth, Get Out Of Depression (GOOD) team have organised a day art therapy session for students of Fedep International School in Cape Coast.

The organization generously provided stationery supplies to all students ranging from Primary 4 to JHS 2.

The stationery items distributed include books, school bags, mathematical sets, pens, pencils, erasers and highlighters.

The art therapy session conducted with the students of Fedep International School explained how it can assist young people in developing their expressive skills and fostering self-assurance.

The programme was held on Monday, 5th June, 2023 at the school premises, with the objective of assisting the students in building confidence, expressing themselves and fostering openness.

Speaking on the sidelines of the programme, the Executive Director of GOOD expressed her appreciation to Prof. Elizabeth Doone from University of South Florida and her students for supporting the programme.

Madam Helena revealed that "Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that employs art as a medium for expression and communication. It is grounded in the belief that the creative process involved in artistic self-expression can aid individuals in resolving conflicts, developing interpersonal skills, managing behaviours, reducing stress, and enhancing self-esteem."

During an interview with a student from class 6, he revealed that his shyness previously hindered his ability to interact and contribute among his classmates. However, after participating in the art therapy session, he found confidence in expressing himself, actively engaging in classroom discussions and enjoying playtime with his friends.

Joseph, a JHS 2 student mentioned that "I am not able to participate in class because I think I am not brilliant enough and scared of making mistakes but the art session has made me build my confidence level as well as made me open-minded."

"Art therapy represents a promising field that holds great potential for helping numerous individuals, and further exploration of its benefits is warranted," she ended.