Music and mental wellbeing

There is strong and growing evidence that music can play an important role in our health and wellbeing. Music is universal and has been a fundamental part of all the world’s cultures since the beginning of time. We all instinctively know that music is strongly linked to how we feel and our sense of who we are. It can lift us when we’re down, calm us when we’re fraught and motivate us to get things done. It helps us mark important moments in our life and build lasting memories.

And in the hands of a trained music therapist, music can be an even more powerful tool. It can help someone communicate, especially when they struggle with language. It can help them to build social connections and break down barriers. And it can help them find ways to be creative, express their identity and find their voice. 

Music therapy can benefit us all. It doesn’t discriminate against sex, race or religion and in the act of music-making people can come together and bridge age, disability and class in a safe place where they don’t feel judged.

how we can help

Our specially trained music therapists can provide a much-needed creative outlet and a supportive network for adults living with a mental health problem. We offer community-based music-making sessions as well as wellbeing support through the NHS.

Mind Our Music Group Sessions

Our Mind Our Music groups are led by those taking part, supported by our trained staff. People can make music within the group or simply listen, talk and share. The main focus is on improvising and song-writing and we provide a wide range of instruments to make new music with. But don’t worry, you don’t need to be a virtuoso to join in, we welcome all levels from non-musicians to accomplished performers.

We run a number of Mind Our Music groups across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, including:

• Bedford

• Luton

• Welwyn Garden City

NHS Wellbeing sessions

We offer mental wellbeing sessions through the NHS in Bedfordshire. Our sessions show participants various alternative/complimentary coping mechanisms to help them manage and improve their mental health and wellbeing. We offer three different approaches:

Music sessions - these are for people looking to use music to explore their creativity while supporting their mental health and wellbeing. No previous experience is required to take part, just a willingness to make live music with others. We provide a range of activities including musical improvisation on a wide range of instruments, singing/learning songs.

Sound baths - make yourself comfortable and relax as specially selected instruments are played taking you on a journey through sound into deep relaxation. It can help people with physical, emotional and mental imbalance, bring harmony and greater wellbeing. It can relieve stress, anxiety and depression, boost your immune system, improve sleep, boost energy and improve motivation.

Emotional freedom technique (EFT) - EFT or ‘tapping’ as it’s also known is an evidence-based technique which can be used to help many different conditions including anxiety, pain, stress, and phobias. With the help and guidance of an EFT practitioner anyone can learn to use this technique and start to gain instant benefits. You simply tap lightly with your fingers on acupuncture points, mainly around the area of your head, and repeat phrases relevant to the issue you are addressing.

You can access the Mind Our Music group sessions and the NHS wellbeing support by completing the referral form below: