Music Therapy & Depression

How does music therapy for depression work?

Music Therapy, combined with standard care, is effective for treating depression in adults. This is true for mild-severe forms of depression and includes effectiveness at treating anxiety symptoms that sometimes accompany depression. Music Therapy for depression might include playing music, improvising, listening to music, singing and can happen in groups, or 1-1 with a music therapist. In music therapy, a wide range of instruments, voice and music technology can be used to form a therapeutic relationship, where expression and exploration of mood, feelings, and life experiences can happen safely. Release and growing awareness of feeling and emotion through music is central to the efficacy of music therapy. Verbal reflections on what is happening in the music can bring things more into consciousness and help to identify a way forward.

What do music therapy sessions look like at Soundwell?

After the initial referral process, a Co-Ordinator will speak with you about the best type of group or session to meet your need. Our Monthly Open Group might be a good place to start, or perhaps you might want to attend a series of 20 sessions in a group, or individually. The more sessions that are attended, the greater the benefit. You will be welcomed into the group/session and there will be a check-in, followed by guided musical activity. All music is supported by the therapists. People find that over time, they can start to access feelings and emotions through the instruments and music made together. This can be a challenge, but is sensitively supported and is a path to rebuilding a sense of self and identity. Difficult feelings can be released and supported, moments of joy and meaningfulness might be experienced. Positive and caring  relationships in groups are fostered, which help with confidence and connection with others. Creativity using music is central to all these processes.

Some client feedback

‘Helped provide structure and lift my mood, enabling me to return to work and living independently.’

‘’Helps me to express my feelings. A connection with other people.’’

‘’I have had the confidence to join a couple of new groups where I don’t know anyone. Since joining music therapy, I have self-harmed less.’’

‘’I found the music sessions uplifting, as I am always singing and listening to music at home. It makes me feel happy and positive about my life.’’

‘’I loved how welcoming and relaxed it was. It was very uplifting to start the week singing… The therapists helped me feel very supported and encouraged and confident.’’

‘’I enjoyed the group session dynamics. We all bounced off each other. What we had achieved together was amazing…. I imagined a big pot in the middle of the group and we each contributed to the pot. What came out of the pot was truly magical! I always looked forward to each session and always came away feeling uplifted and motivated to go home and do something.’’

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