Mrs Louise Splatt1
1Royal Perth Bentley Group, Perth, Australia
Abstract:
Music and rhythm bring connection with others and enables personal engagement with our emotions. When used purposefully and therapeutically, music and rhythm promote and support mental health care and healing. Rhythm2Recovery is an evidence-based healthcare model combining rhythmic music, mindfulness, positive psychology and creative expression. Therapeutic outcomes include emotional connection and regulation, improved coordination and focus, reduced anxiety, and improved sense of wellbeing in various population groups.
A successful trial of Rhythm2Recovery in one mental healthcare unit at Royal Perth Bentley Group (RPBG), supported by the Occupational Therapy (OT) department achieved 100% positive consumer feedback, with improved consumer measures for anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. The OT department commenced further program rollouts across all areas of RPBG acute mental health care. This implementation expanded to include Social Work, Education and Peer Worker co-facilitation to create opportunity for therapeutic discussion and perspectives.
Utilisation of Rhythm2Recovery in RPBG inpatient acute mental health care units currently includes evaluating consumer-reported satisfaction and benefits and gathering objective measures of clinical presentations. A key objective is to review the benefit(s) of single Rhythm2Recovery sessions for acute mental health inpatients compared with community-based mental health groups where participation is evaluated over multiple attendances.
With each new innovation in mental health care, it is essential for OTs and allied health clinicians to gather evidence of the benefits, to establish and promote incorporating as recognised mental health interventions and optimise their use for patients.
So, listen to the rhythm and the beat – finding new and better ways of care.