At Athenie’s Angels, we walk beside you on your journey to better understand the complexities of mental illness and to support your ongoing pursuit of mental health and well-being. This is not a path you need to walk alone, it’s one we travel together.
Our programs are continually evolving to meet your needs. Stay connected through our website and social media platforms for inspiration, encouragement, and the latest updates on our expanding offerings.
We’re excited to share our programs and events throughout 2025 designed to support and uplift you every step of the way. Contact us via atheniesangels.org.au for more information.
Continuing the Search for Wellbeing
As the Cold Air Surrounds Us
We Can Find Warmth
From Within and from One Another
Music for Wellbeing
This month our focus is on the power and benefits of MUSIC in our lives.
What is music therapy?
The specialized use of music to restore, maintain, and improve cognitive, emotional, social, communicative, and physiological functioning
The use of goal-directed music interventions focused on symptom management, fostering relationships with peers and therapists, and providing psychosocial support and education to augment hope, meaning, purpose, and recovery
According to the American Psychiatric Association music has always held a special place in our lives, forming an integral part of human culture for centuries. Whether we passively listen to our favorite songs or actively engage in music-making by singing or playing instruments, music can have a profound influence on our socio-emotional development and overall well-being.
Research suggests that music engagement not only shapes our personal and cultural identities but also plays a role in mood regulation. Music can be used to help in addressing serious mental health disorders. In addition to its healing potential, music can magnify the message of diversity and inclusion by introducing people to new cultures, thereby enhancing our understanding and appreciation for diverse communities.
Healing Trauma and Building Resilience
Music therapy has shown promise in providing a safe and supportive environment for healing trauma and building resilience while decreasing anxiety levels and improving the functioning of depressed individuals. Music therapy is an evidence-based therapeutic intervention using music to accomplish health and education goals, such as reducing stress and improving mental wellness
It is offered in settings such as schools and hospitals and Research supports that engaging in music-making activities, such as drumming circles, songwriting, or group singing can facilitate emotional release.
And reduce the stigma associated with mental ill health.
Through music, individuals can express their unique experiences, struggles, and triumphs, forging connections with others who share similar backgrounds. Research has shown that exposure to diverse musical genres and artists can broaden perspectives, challenge stereotypes, and foster empathy among listeners.
Fostering Social Connection and Support
Music can also serve as a catalyst for social connection and support, breaking down barriers and bridging divides. Communities can leverage music’s innate ability to connect people and foster a sense of belonging through music programs, choirs, and music education initiatives. These experiences promote social cohesion, combat loneliness, and provide a support network that can positively impact overall well-being.
Musicians and Normalising Mental Health
While music has healing effects, it is also important to note that recent surveys disclose significant numbers of musicians experience mental health symptoms. Not because of the music. In spite of it. Music speaks to them as a place of acceptance and healing. A safe place for self-expression.
Commendably, many well-known artists such as Adele, Alanis Morrisette, Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar, Kid Cudi and Demi Lovato have spoken out about their mental health battles, from postpartum depression to suicidal ideation. Having high-profile artists and celebrities share their lived experiences has opened the conversation about the importance of mental wellness. This can help battle the stigma associated with seeking treatment and support.
More on Music Therapy
Music therapy interventions may:
Improve depressive symptoms, decrease anxiety, and improve functioning for people with a variety of mental health conditions
Improve emotional expression, group interaction, development of skills, and quality of life for people with substance use conditions
Address loneliness, grief, loss, and stigma that persist despite treatment
Some Local Music Programs in Melbourne
VISIT THE AUSTRALIAN MUSIC VAULT (Arts Centre Melbourne – 100 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne)
More than just an exhibition, the Australian Music Vault offers the chance to participate in music making through an active Learning program featuring specially commissioned online resources, onsite workshops and exclusive choir arrangements of great Australian songs for school and community singing groups. An exciting calendar of curated performances, programs and events also allows visitors to deepen their appreciation of the music scene throughout the year.
CHOIR 3006
Escape the daily grind with a sing at weekly lunch time drop-in sessions. Where new sounds become unexpected anthems!
Where? Melbourne Recital Centre
When? Every Wednesday (during school terms) from 12:15 to 1:00 pm
Cost? Free
WILD AT HEART MUSIC SKILLS
Develop your musical ability in songwriting, recording and performance as an introduction to the music industry or a pathway to a musical career.
A friendly and accessible day of song writing and music workshops for people living with disability, complex mental health, neuro and gender diversity. Participants and artists of all music skill levels, abilities, gender-identities and diverse backgrounds are welcome and supported to participate.
Where? Sol Green Community Centre (corner Montague St and Coventry St in South Melbourne)
When? Wednesdays 11 am to 2 pm
LIVE MUSIC LOCATOR
Visit St. Kilda where there is something for every music taste: late night laneways, iconic band rooms, heritage-listed concert halls.
Go to https://stkilda.lml.live to find the gigs that inspire you and fill your need for music, bring friends and family or go alone and meet new like minded music lovers.
Keep singing. Keep dancing. Keep hearing music to bring you joy and a place of well-being. Keep music alive in your heart!
If you or someone you know is facing life’s challenges and in need of tools and support, we’re here to help.
At Athenie’s Angels, we encourage you to reach out for yourself or your loved ones — the sooner, the better. You don’t have to face this alone.
We’re here to walk with you as you navigate the path toward mental well-being.
For more information, visit www.atheniesangels.org.au.
Reach out!
We are a space of hope!