Page 44 - NAMAH-Jul-2020

Song-writing: an effective tool in Music therapy for expressing
emotions during the pandemic of Covid-19

Aradhana Deogharia

Skill/area targeted: expression of emotions
Age-group: older adults (65-90 years)
Setting: Group of 15 seniors in virtual session
Music therapy technique: Music in Psychosocial Training and Counselling (MPC)
Equipment: A large sheet of paper on which to write song words and accompanying instruments
(harmonium, electronic tabla)

Abstract
A Neurologic Music therapy, a facilitated song-writing tool of Psychosocial Training and
Counselling (MPC) technique was developed as a cost-effective and accessible intervention for
older adults experiencing symptoms of distress and anxiety due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fifteen older adults, who had been experiencing major or minor symptoms of generalised anxiety
disorders due to Covid-19 pandemic situation, were assigned 10 virtual weekly sessions of Music
therapy, including:

1) A virtual home-based therapy session conducted by a music therapist
2) A self-guided programme where participants applied some interventions of passive music
therapy by listening to songs and through watching videos of a music therapist for improvisation
3) Song-writing and music-making to express hidden emotions in five weekly sessions of a virtual
group setting with the help of a music therapist.

Participants, after the10th weekly session of musical intervention with home bound
of virtual music therapy session, behaved elders and others who have limited access
significantly better in their self-esteem and to services during pandemic condition
moods. These improvements are clinically is discussed.
significant and the potential for this type

44