The Division of Mental Health and ATODS (Mackay Queensland) along with the Mental Illness Fellowship of North Queensland have been successful in facilitating a singing therapy program for clients who experience mental illness. The choir practises weekly at the Choral Society Hall in Beaconsfield, capably directed by our delightful and skilled singing teacher and her assistant. The aim of the choir is to improve mental health by fostering a sense of belongingness and group interaction, which is inherently difficult with people who experience mental illness. The choir commenced in May 2008 and during this time the positive outcomes for the participants have included:
· Singing at community events;
· Reducing the stigma of mental illness in the eyes of the general community;
· An increased confidence and ability in social interaction;
· Improvement in mental health;
· Having fun.
Participation in the choir is free of charge and transport is provided by the organisations involved.
For more information, please contact:
Special acknowledgement goes to our sponsors, Lions Club of North Mackay and G&S Engineering for their support.
Dr Roger Van Der Veen
07 4968 3893
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