March 2025: Discrimination-related depression, music and pain relief.
Three very diverse areas of mental health have caught my attention this month - all have possible implications for future mental health services and work with clients.
Discrimination-related Depression
A new US study from the Boston University School of Public Health** of 30,000 people from a cross section of the US population has found that high exposure to discrimination or mistreatment may significantly increase the likelihood of developing depression or anxiety. The findings were similar across male and female populations and Dr Monica Wang explains "Our study expands our understanding beyond typical Black-White comparisons, showing that everyday discrimination is a widespread issue that negatively impacts mental health across all racial and ethnic groups,"
Dr Wang goes to say "Our results are a powerful reminder that discrimination is everyone's issue -- and addressing it benefits society as a whole."
With some groups, compared with those who haven't experienced discrimination, being up to 9 times more likely to develop depression and anxiety this is an economic as well as mental health issue.
Using Music to Deal with Chronic Pain
I loved reading about this project from Welsh National Opera and NHS Wales. Participants in the pilot programme attended sessions with vocal coaches and two thirds found that they were better able to manage their pain through techniques taught to them and two thirds found their mental health had improved through singing in a safe environment. Some have even gone on to join choirs since.
Mental Health Hubs - Glasgow, Scotland
Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH) is a charity with a head office in Glasgow who are planning to launch a series of walk-in mental health hubs called The Nook. SAMH say "The Nook is a place to ask once and get help fast. Our first Nook will open in Glasgow in late 2025. We will create four more across Scotland by the end of 2028, prioritising communities experiencing poverty, unemployment and social exclusion, and ensuring support reaches those who need it most."
SAMH are currently fundraising in order to provide the service. Its not fully clear what the walk-in service will offer but is encouraging that they are hoping to support the more vulnerable members of society who may not have access to private services and who would normally be waiting for NHS services.
Beyond the Therapy Room
Beyond the Therapy Room is a monthly blog exploring mental health issues of interest to practitioners including new research, policy changes, trends and insights that may impact therapists and their work.
Training and Events
Take a look at CPD events for counsellors, psychotherapists and talking therapists at Northside training here.
*Pioneering project by Welsh National Opera suggests music can alleviate chronic pain, Guardian.com
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