‘To be heard’: The social and mental health benefits of choir singing for disadvantaged adults
From Psychology of Music
Adults living with a chronic mental illness or disability tend to participate less frequently in occupational and social interactions compared to the general population. This may exacerbate problems. Those that suffer with a mental illness may experience a negative effect on daily functioning as well as impairment or prevention of typical development potentially leading to social marginalization. This study recognizes there is a need for community-based strategies to assist individuals with chronic mental health problems to achieve mental health and wellbeing while remaining out of hospital. The paper aims to explore the personal experiences of choir members as it is understood that singing provides the opportunity for meaningful activity, social connectedness and quality of life for these individuals. The research demonstrates that, with appropriate support, adults experiencing chronic mental health problems or disabilities are able to gain important social and health benefits from choir singing. The wide popularity of tv shows like X-Factor and Glee suggest that even amateur singing; individually or within a group, is publicly encouraged and celebrated which hopefully enables many who find it difficult to socialize and integrate to become involved in the activity to discover their voice and identity. Getting involved in singing activities is very much on-trend, it’s credible and accessible to all. Many could be encouraged to sing their way to better mental health.