Poetry power: writing verses may lift spirits of mental health volunteers

This study explores whether writing Chinese poems can improve the mental wellbeing and happiness of adult volunteers who serve people recovering from mental illness. Thirty participants will attend two 3-hour poem-writing sessions led by experienced teachers. Researchers will measure changes in wellbeing, happiness, and mood using surveys and interviews. This is a small feasibility study, so results will be descriptive and not tested for statistical significance.