When 76-year-old Mdm Chen was first referred to Filos in January 2025, she was struggling deeply. Widowed and living alone, she battled low moods, memory loss, and frequent thoughts of suicide. With little social engagement, each day felt heavy and isolating.

That was when Filos’ Community Mental Health (CMH) team stepped in. Over the course of a year, social workers from our COMIT (Community Intervention Team) journeyed alongside her with counselling, case management, and psycho-education to help her better understand and manage her emotions and condition. She was also linked to our Active Ageing Centre (AAC), where she began participating in programmes such as Makan Memories and Game Time. These activities provided her with both joy and connection.

Slowly but surely, Mdm Chen felt better and her condition began to stabilise. Counselling gave her a safe space to process grief, while group activities offered companionship and laughter. In her own words: “I am thankful to come here to join the activities and help to volunteer. I enjoy myself and feel happier as I get to mix with people and don’t overthink.”

Today, Mdm Chen has taken her recovery a step further by becoming a volunteer herself. Every Friday, she joins other seniors at Game Time, playing mahjong and helping out with administrative tasks at Filos’ AAC. These opportunities have lifted her mood, expanded her social circle, and given her renewed purpose.

Her social worker, Juliana, shares: “Through support, she has gradually opened up and has a more positive mood. She reports no more suicide ideation, especially when she comes to Filos. She has renewed purpose and finds meaning in her life to be socially active and to help others.”

Mdm Chen’s story reminds us that with support, care, and community, even the darkest seasons can give way to new beginnings filled with meaning, hope, and joy.

If you or someone you know in the Bedok or Geylang region is experiencing mental health challenges, reach out to us at info@filos.sg today.