Rhythms of learning - a model of practice supporting youth mental health in the era of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant increase in demand for mental health services for young people. This demand comes on top of a preexisting surge in mental health presentations for our youth, and it places extraordinary demand on support services and the professionals who deliver them. Concurrently, it is recognised that engaging and working with young people and their mental health has its own unique challenges, and that many young people find direct 'talk-based' therapies confronting. This article examines the use of a model of group work practice combining the benefits of rhythmic music with reflective discussions as a response to the dual challenges of workplace burnout and client engagement. It reflects on the important role music has to play in young lives and how this can be extended into therapy in a fun and uplifting manner. It draws attention to the long history of rhythmic music within traditional healing practices and the emerging scientific evidence supporting this approach.

Automated summary

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased the demand for mental health services for young people, posing challenges for support services and professionals. Engaging with young people and their mental health is particularly challenging, as many find traditional 'talk-based' therapies confronting. This article explores a group work practice that combines rhythmic music with reflective discussions as a response to burnout and client engagement challenges. It highlights the importance of music in young people's lives and its potential for uplifting therapy, drawing attention to the historical use of rhythmic music in traditional healing practices and emerging scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness.