Group singing, socialising boost mental health

Washington D.C. [USA], Dec. 22 (ANI): Singing in a group can boost mental health conditions, making them feel valued and also increase their confidence, suggest a recent study.

The findings indicated that people, who took part in a community singing group, maintained or improved their mental health.

And that the combination of singing and socialising was an essential part of recovery, because it promoted an ongoing feeling of belonging and well-being.

Researchers from the University of East Anglia in Norwich, England, examined the benefits of singing among people with mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression.

They found that people, who took part in a community singing group, maintained or improved their mental health.

The research project followed the group for six months and undertook interviews and focus groups with participants, organisers, and workshop leaders.

Lead researcher Tom Shakespeare said, "We found that singing as part of a group contributes to people's recovery from mental health problems."

"The main way that Sing Your Heart Out differs from a choir is that anyone can join in regardless of ability. There's also very little pressure because the participants are not rehearsing towards a performance. It's very inclusive and it's just for fun," Shakespeare added.

The results suggested that all of the participants, who participated, reported positive effects on their mental health as a direct result of taking part in the singing workshops.

The report showed how a combination of singing and social engagement gave participants a feeling of belonging and wellbeing that often lasted a day or more, as well as improved social skills and confidence.

The research appears in the BMJ journal Medical Humanities. (ANI)

This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI