Music based therapy proves positive for mental health
CECAT Music Studio Coordinator and Senior Occupational Therapist Andrew Miller
Music therapy has a positive impact on people with mental health issues according to a recent study by Curtin University students.
A study of the music therapy program at the Creative Expressive Centre for Art Therapy (CECAT) at Graylands Hospital showed it can help people better express and regulate their thoughts and emotions, improve overall wellbeing and facilitate social engagement.
The 10-week study was carried out by four final year Bachelor of Science Occupational Therapy Honours students in October last year.
CECAT Music Studio Coordinator and Senior Occupational Therapist Andrew Miller said music-based interventions have been increasingly used in the treatment of mental health conditions, with the program at Graylands Hospital providing some positive results.
“Thirteen current and former participants of the CECAT music therapy program took part in the study on a voluntary basis, which involved them being interviewed about their experiences,” Andrew said.