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Educational blogs for parents and professionals
Supporting Parents of Neurodiverse Children: A Guide to Patience and Compassion, Especially During the Holiday Season
Child having a meltdown during holiday shopping
Parenting is a journey filled with love, growth and certainly challenges. For parents of neurodiverse children, this journey can include additional hurdles, such as sensory overload, public meltdowns and the need and desire for understanding from those around them. The holiday season, with its vibrant lights, loud festive music, and bustling gatherings, can amplify these challenges, making it crucial for communities to offer support and compassion rather than judgment. I appreciate that many companies and events are increasingly offering sensory-friendly options for our neurodivergent family members. Below are several ways in which you can support them instead of passing judgment and being a critical observer.
Understanding Neurodiversity
According to Harvard Health Publishing, “Neurodiversity describes the idea that people experience and interact with the world around them in many different ways; there is no one "right" way of thinking, learning, and behaving, and difference are not viewed as deficits.” In its truest sense, neurodiversity celebrates the variety of human brains and the unique ways they function. Children with autism, ADHD, and other neurodiverse conditions may experiences the world completely differently that you or I. This can result in behaviors that appear challenging to outsiders, such as sensory overload and difficulty with transitions, particularly during the hectic holiday season filled with flashing lights, large crowds, loud music and much more.
The Reality of Meltdowns
Meltdowns are not tantrums! They are intense responses to overwhelming situations and are beyond the child's control. Recognizing this difference is the first step towards empathy. During the holidays, the sensory input from crowded malls, loud parties, and bright decorations can trigger these responses. Parents often feel judged during these moments, adding to their stress. Your understanding and patience can positively impact an overwhelmed, stressed parent.
How to Offer Support
Practice Patience: Understand that meltdowns are a part of the child's coping mechanism. Patience is key. Offer a reassuring smile or a simple, "Is there anything I can do to help?" This shows empathy and understanding.
Avoid Judgment: It's easy to jump to conclusions about parenting skills, but remember, every child is different. Refrain from making assumptions or offering unsolicited advice. Instead, offer a kind word or a gesture of support.
Educate Yourself: Learn about neurodiversity and the specific challenges these families face. Knowledge fosters empathy and allows you to provide more meaningful support.
Be a Friend: Sometimes, just being there to listen is the best support you can offer. Let parents know you're there for them without judgment, ready to lend an ear or a helping hand.
Encourage Inclusivity: Advocate for environments that welcome neurodiverse individuals. Support businesses and schools that embrace inclusivity, and encourage others to do the same.
What to Know
Every Child is Unique: Neurodiverse children have their own strengths and challenges. Embrace individuality and inspire others to do so, despite a cultural tendency to “normalize” and categorize people, which often reveals our own ignorance.
Parents Need Support Too: Parenting a neurodiverse child is rewarding but can be exhausting and at times “embarrassing” based on others' responses. Offering to help with small tasks or simply checking in can be incredibly supportive.
Meltdowns are Not a Reflection of Parenting: Understand that meltdowns are not a sign of poor parenting. They are a natural part of the child's experience.
By choosing compassion over judgment, you can make a positive impact in the lives of neurodiverse families. Your support not only helps parents feel less isolated but also contributes to a more understanding and inclusive community. Together, we can create a world that celebrates every child, especially during the holiday season when empathy and kindness are crucial amidst the chaos of shopping and family gatherings, which may be easy for some but can be challenging for families of neurodiverse children.
Be patient, kind, loving, and supportive to others!
Mewsic Moves has supported neurodiverse families for over 20 years. We offer complimentary 15-minute consultations to discuss our services and how music therapy can aid your family's goals and needs.
Click here to schedule your FREE 15-min consultation.
We also offer FREE resources and events for parents and professionals:
Click here for FREE Family Resources/Events
Click here for FREE Professional Resources/Events
Wishing you and your family the best of the holiday season!
Navigating the Holiday Hustle and Stress: Supporting Children with ASD and Sensory Needs Through Music and More
The holiday season can be a whirlwind of activities, lights, and sounds, which can be overwhelming for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other sensory needs. However, with the right strategies and resources, parents can help their children navigate these busy times with confidence and joy. Here are some tips, including music-based resources, to prepare for the holiday festivities:
1. Create a Visual Schedule
Visual schedules can be a powerful tool for children with ASD. They provide a clear and predictable structure, helping children understand what to expect. Use pictures or symbols to represent different events and activities, and review the schedule together each day.
2. Incorporate Music
Music therapy is a wonderful way to help children with ASD manage stress and sensory overload. At Mewsic Moves, we offer tailored music therapy sessions that can be particularly beneficial during the holiday season. Consider incorporating music into your daily routine, such as playing calming tunes during transitions or engaging in musical activities to express emotions and/or provide tools to help your child to distract.
At Mewsic Moves, we curate themed playlists on our Spotify channel titled "Harmony for All: With Empowering Tunes." These playlists are designed to ease the stress of searching for the perfect song or playlist, catering to the specific emotional needs of all ages.
We encourage you to explore the various tracks and find which ones resonate best with you or your little ones. It’s important to personalize the experience, as music can evoke different feelings and memories for everyone. Take the time to listen together, discussing which melodies spark joy or help in moments of overwhelm. We highly recommend our playlist “Calm and Focus” to start.
3. Designate a Quiet Space
Amidst the holiday chaos, having a designated quiet space can provide a much-needed retreat for children with ASD and sensory needs. Equip this area with noise-canceling headphones, favorite toys, or calming music to help your child decompress when needed.
4. Practice Social Stories
Social stories are brief narratives that assist children in understanding social situations, expectations and what to do in the event of distress or uncertainty. Create stories about upcoming holiday events, like family gatherings or visits to Santa, to prepare your child for what they may experience. At Mewsic Moves, we use visuals from clip art or real photos to make these stories more realistic, helping children visualize and familiarize themselves with the events, people, or places.
5. Engage in Musical Activities at Home
Music can be a comforting and engaging activity for children with ASD and sensory needs. Incorporate simple musical games like rhythm imitation or singing familiar songs to help your child connect, communicate and feel safe during the holiday events. Establish a musical routine to prepare your child for various events and consider returning to a music activity at home to help them settle and distract from any challenging experiences. Singing, movement, drumming, and rhythm can reduce anxiety and stress. At Mewsic Moves, we offer music-based social skills groups for all ages to support neurodiverse individuals in finding effective strategies and practicing social expectations through music.
Check out some of our supports here.
6. Plan Sensory-Friendly Outings
Look for sensory-friendly events in your community, such as quiet hours at local museums or holiday events designed for neurodiverse children. These outings can provide enjoyable experiences without overwhelming sensory input and make for a more memorable and enjoyable family holiday event. Check out this link to find sensory-friendly events throughout LA for the upcoming holiday events.
7. Communicate with Family and Friends
Inform family and friends about your child's needs and preferences, sharing effective strategies for support during gatherings. While educating the public can be challenging, especially when parents face negative reactions to their child's distress, it's important to prioritize your child's needs. Some people may understand, while others may not—this is their issue, not yours! We are also working on a new article: Supporting Parents of Neurodiverse Children: A Guide to Patience and Compassion. Will be released soon, stay tuned!
8. Utilize Online Resources
Many online resources support parents and children with ASD. Websites like Autism Speaks , Autism Resource Project and Fun and Functional offer helpful tips, education, resources and community support. At Mewsic Moves we offer convenient virtual music therapy sessions and FREE events and resources for parents and other paraprofessionals. We would love to have you at our future FREE events. Sign up for FREE HERE
9. Take Time for Yourself! Take a Break!
While it may seem simple, managing a child's extreme panic and anxiety can be quite challenging. As a marriage and family therapist, I emphasize the importance of parents prioritizing self-care to regulate their own emotions, as it's easy to absorb their child's energy and feel as panic and frustrated as they are. Engaging in daily mindfulness practices, taking walks, and other self-care activities can help prepare you to face the difficult challenges that may arise during the holidays.
With thoughtful preparation and the right resources, the holiday season can be an enjoyable and enriching time for children with sensory needs, ASD and their families. By incorporating the therapeutic and calming elements of music and other supportive strategies, you can help your child thrive amidst the holiday hustle.
We are here to help you and your family enjoy the holidays. If you need extra support or would like your loved one to benefit from music therapy for regulation strategies and more, we offer a FREE 15-minute consultation. Our services are available throughout Los Angeles in Santa Monica, Torrance, Long Beach, Glendale, and online!
If you are a parent and need additional support or need some community support we also offer FREE parent resources and events and would love to support you in any way we can. Click here to sign up for FREE parent events/support.
For more information or to schedule a free consultation, visit Mewsic Moves or call 1-833-MEWSIC-1.
Celebrating National Kids Music Day with Mewsic Moves: A Musical Journey for All Abilities
As we celebrate National Kids Music Day, Mewsic Moves is thrilled to share the transformative power of music therapy for children of all abilities. This special day highlights how music can be a vital tool for learning, development, and emotional well-being. At Mewsic Moves, we are dedicated to using music therapy to support children with various disabilities, helping them thrive in a nurturing and creative environment.
The Power of Music Therapy
Music therapy is a dynamic and evidence-based practice that harnesses the power of music to address a wide range of developmental needs. For children with disabilities, music therapy offers a unique way to engage, educate, and empower. Our approach at Mewsic Moves focuses on enhancing skills such as movement, memory, emotional regulation, social skills, motor skills, education, speech, and communication.
Mewsic Moves Celebrates Kids Music Day!
Click on the image to listen to our playlist for all abilities.
Harmony for All: With Empowering Tunes
Curated by Mewsic Moves’ music therapy team.
To celebrate National Kids Music Day, we've curated a special Spotify playlist designed to support children with various disabilities. Click the image above to listen to our playlist. This therapeutic playlist combines fun and educational songs that promote growth and development in key areas:
"The Wheels on the Bus" - Encourages movement and motor skills through interactive actions.
"Baby Beluga" by Raffi - Enhances memory and education with a focus on marine life.
"If You're Happy and You Know It" - Promotes emotional regulation and expression through physical activity.
"The ABC Song" - Reinforces alphabet learning and memory retention.
"Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" - Provides relaxation and stimulates imagination.
"Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes" - Develops body awareness and coordination.
"A Whole New World" from Aladdin - Inspires imagination and exploration.
"Hakuna Matata" from The Lion King - Encourages positive thinking and stress relief.
"Old MacDonald Had a Farm" - Supports speech and communication through vocalization.
"B-I-N-G-O" - Promotes memory and social skills in group settings.
"The Lion Sleeps Tonight" - Offers rhythm and relaxation.
"Five Little Ducks" - Reinforces counting skills and memory.
"Here Comes the Sun" by The Beatles - Uplifts mood and enhances emotional well-being.
"Under the Sea" from The Little Mermaid - Encourages exploration and imagination.
"I Can Sing a Rainbow" - Teaches colors and enhances speech.
Creating Original Songs for Therapy
At Mewsic Moves, we pride ourselves on creating original songs for therapy tailored to the unique needs of each child. Our therapists work closely with children to compose personalized music that resonates with their individual experiences and goals. These original compositions are crafted to support therapeutic objectives, whether it's improving motor skills, enhancing communication, or fostering emotional expression.
Our original songs are more than just melodies; they are tools for connection and growth. By involving children in the creative process, we empower them to explore their creativity and express themselves in new and meaningful ways. This personalized approach ensures that each therapy session is both engaging and effective.
Check Out Mewsic Moves Original Songs Here
Check Out Mewsic Moves Original Downloadable Interventions Here
Celebrating National Kids Music Day with Mewsic Moves
As we celebrate National Kids Music Day, we invite you to join us in recognizing the incredible impact of music therapy. Whether through our curated playlist or the creation of original songs, Mewsic Moves is committed to making music therapy accessible and beneficial for all children. Together, let's make this day a celebration of music, creativity, and the limitless potential of every child.
Music is an essential part of children’s (and our) everyday life, and at Mewsic Moves, we believe it has the power to transform lives. Let's continue to share the gift of music and create a harmonious future for children of all abilities.
Happy National Kids Music Day!
Feel free to share this blog post with your community, and let's spread the joy of music together. If you have any ideas or themes you'd like us to explore we’d love to hear from you.
Discover the Transformative Power of Music Therapy for Your Child!
Are you interested in exploring how music therapy can support your child's unique needs and goals? At Mewsic Moves, we offer a FREE 15-minute consultation to discuss how our personalized music therapy programs can make a difference in your child's life.
Our skilled board-certified music therapists will work closely with you to create an individualized music therapy plan tailored to your child's specific developmental needs and objectives. Whether it's enhancing communication, improving motor skills, or fostering emotional expression, we're here to help your child thrive in a nurturing, fun and creative environment.
Don't miss this opportunity to unlock your child's potential through the power of music. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation, and let's embark on a musical journey together!
Click here to schedule your FREE Consultation
We look forward to supporting you and your family!
Introducing Mewsic Moves' Recommended Spotify Playlists for Music Therapy: Calm & Focus
At Mewsic Moves, we understand the transformative power of music therapy in healing, growth, and self-expression. As part of our dedication to enhancing mental health through music, we're thrilled to introduce our "Mewsic Moves Recommended" Spotify playlist series. Our first offering, the "Calm & Focus" playlist, is designed to support therapeutic music experiences and provide healing through music between sessions and into everyday life.
Calm & Focus
Playlist Description: Calm & Focus
Welcome to the "Mewsic Moves: Calm & Focus" playlist! This therapeutic music collection is thoughtfully curated to support goals like self-regulation, improving attention span, emotional grounding and much more. Created by Mewsic Moves' experts in creative arts therapy, these tracks complement your music therapy sessions, whether you're developing skills such as self-regulation and focus or simply seeking a moment of musical peace.
Get Your Calm & Focus Playlist Here!
How to Use This Playlist:
1. Listen Actively
Engage with the therapeutic music by focusing on rhythms, melodies, and harmonies. Allow the sounds and lyrics to guide your thoughts and emotions, centering yourself during moments of stress or distraction.
2. Incorporate into Daily Routines
Whether you're studying, meditating, or winding down after work or before bed, this playlist can help you stay grounded and focused. Playing these songs during activities that require concentration enhances productivity and creates a peaceful environment.
3. Interactive Listening
Use the playlist as a backdrop for creative activities like drawing, journaling, or gentle movement exercises. The music promotes self-expression while encouraging calm and clarity.
4. Reflect and Share
After listening, reflect on how the music affected your mood or mindset. Sharing your experiences with your therapist or loved ones can deepen your therapeutic process and help you connect more meaningfully with others.
The "Mewsic Moves Recommended" Spotify playlist series is now ready to enhance your therapeutic journey. These thoughtfully curated playlists extend the therapeutic music experience beyond the therapy room, supporting clients in their ongoing development and everyday life experiences.
This initiative aligns with Mewsic Moves' commitment to evidence-based therapy and could lead to improved client outcomes as you incorporate music into your therapeutic process and everyday life.
We’d Love To Hear From You !!!
Regarding the Mewsic Moves Recommended Playlist, we'd love to hear your suggestions for our Calm & Focus playlist. If you have favorite tracks or ideas on what could enhance the experience, feel free to share them with us. Your feedback helps us create meaningful resources that align with our shared goals of peace, tranquility, grounding and maintaining focus.
Enjoy the journey of sound, and let the Mewsic Move you!
Ready to Enhance Your Therapeutic Journey?
If you're seeking support through counseling or music therapy, we're here to help! At Mewsic Moves, we offer a FREE 15-minute consultation to explore how our services can meet your unique needs. Whether you're interested in our "Calm & Focus" playlist or personalized therapy sessions, our experts are eager to guide you on your path to healing and growth.
Contact Us Today!
Reach out to us at 1-833-MEWSIC-1 or info@mewsicmoves.com to schedule your free consultation. Discover the transformative power of music therapy/counseling and let the Mewsic Move you toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Embracing Neurodiversity: Evolving Autism Care Beyond ABA Therapy
In recent years, discussions surrounding autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and its treatment have evolved significantly. Traditionally, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy has been the predominant approach for managing the behaviors of children with autism. Some still recommend up to 20 hours of ABA per week. However, there is a growing acknowledgment of the limitations and criticisms associated with ABA therapy.
Numerous articles delve into the critiques and hurdles associated with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) as the predominant therapy for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Below are a few examples:
1. The Controversy Around ABA by Child Mind Institute.
2. ABA Therapy Controversy by Total Care Therapy
3. The Controversy over Autism’s most Common Therapy by Spectrum Autism Research News
4. Concerns About ABA-Based Intervention: An Evaluation and Recommendations by Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
As our comprehension and appreciation for neurodiversity grows, and as we aim for methods that are both inclusive and efficient, it becomes imperative to delve into alternative viewpoints. This includes considering approaches that view autism as a neurological condition rather than solely emphasizing behavioral modification. After all, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is classified as a neurological and developmental disorder, not solely a behavioral one.
Autism as a Neurological Condition
Autism spectrum disorder is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social interaction, communication, and behavior. Research suggests that autism has strong neurological underpinnings, with differences in brain structure and function compared to neurotypical individuals. Viewing autism through a neurobiological lens highlights the importance of addressing the core challenges individuals with autism face, such as sensory sensitivities, executive functioning difficulties, and atypical processing of social cues.
Questions about ABA Therapy
ABA therapy is a behaviorally based intervention that aims to modify and shape behaviors through reinforcement techniques and some still practice reward and punishment in their ABA sessions. While it has been widely used and has shown some benefits for individuals with autism, there are significant concerns and criticisms associated with this approach. Critics argue that ABA therapy focuses excessively on normalization and compliance, often at the expense of the individual's autonomy and well-being. Additionally, ABA's emphasis on outward behavior modification may overlook the underlying neurological differences and fail to address the unique needs of individuals with autism.
Moving Towards Neurodiversity and Acceptance
Treating autism as a neurological condition rather than solely a set of behaviors encourages a shift towards a more holistic and inclusive approach. Embracing neurodiversity acknowledges the inherent value and strengths of individuals with autism, promoting acceptance and inclusion in society. Instead of viewing autism as something to be fixed or normalized, this perspective emphasizes providing support and accommodations that align with the individual's neurobiological profile and preferences.
Alternative Approaches to ASD
In recent years, various alternative approaches to ABA therapy have gained attention and research support, prioritizing improved quality of life and self-determination for individuals with autism. These approaches include:
Strengths-Based Approaches: Recognizing and building upon the strengths and interests of individuals with autism to support their development and well-being.
Sensory Integration Therapy: Addressing sensory sensitivities and difficulties through structured sensory experiences to promote self-regulation and comfort.
Social Skills Training: Providing targeted interventions to improve social communication and interaction skills, tailored to the individual's needs, preferences and/or limitations.
Occupational Therapy: Supporting individuals with autism in developing adaptive skills for daily living and promoting independence in various contexts.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Focusing on acceptance, mindfulness, and values-based behavior change to help individuals with autism lead meaningful and fulfilling lives.
Neurologic Music Therapy: (NMT) is a scientifically and holistically validated treatment that harnesses the power of music to influence the brain and its neural responses. Its benefits encompass improving communication and social skills, regulating emotional responses, addressing sensory needs and enhancing overall cognitive development.
As our understanding of autism continues to evolve and we understand the variations of the spectrum, it's essential to reevaluate traditional approaches to treatment and embrace more inclusive and person-centered perspectives. By shifting the focus from behavior modification to addressing the underlying neurological differences, we can better support the diverse needs and strengths of individuals with autism. While ABA therapy may have a place in the spectrum of interventions, it's crucial to explore alternative approaches that prioritize acceptance, autonomy, neurobiology and well-being. Ultimately, by embracing neurodiversity and adopting a more nuanced understanding of autism, we can create a more supportive and inclusive society for all.
At Mewsic Moves, our mission is to foster a culture of respect and acceptance for every individual, irrespective of their limitations. We prioritize autonomy, aiming to boost confidence and encourage self-expression and confidence. Through our neurologic music-centered approach and acceptance-based therapy, we empower individuals to embrace their true selves while also aiding them in achieving their personal goals. Our programs and tailored supports are flexible, adapting to the unique needs and communication styles of each client.
Our services include group and individual support in our 3 locations: Santa Monica, Torrance and Long Beach, CA. For more on our group programs check out the links below.
Glee Choir: www.mewsicmoves.com/glee-choir
Rock Band: www.mewsicmoves.com/rock-band
Music based social skills groups: www.mewsicmoves.com/social-skills
We offer a free 15-minute consultation and are excited to explore how our neurobiologically informed Music Therapy can support your loved one through a treatment grounded in acceptance and research.
Click here to schedule your FREE 15-minute consultation. We look forward to supporting you.
5 Beginner-Friendly Instruments for Mental Health
Embarking on a musical journey can be a powerful ally in fostering mental well-being, and choosing the right instrument can make all the difference. In this blog post, we explore five beginner-friendly instruments that not only make learning enjoyable but also contribute to mental health in various ways. From the ethereal tones of the tongue drum to the soothing resonance of the singing bowl, each instrument offers a unique avenue for relaxation, focus, self-expression, and more. Join us in discovering how these instruments can become your companions on the path to enhanced mental well-being.
Tongue Drum
You know that beautiful serene music that you hear playing at the spa or in yoga classes? Well, you can make that yourself if you have a tongue drum. There are no “wrong” notes on the instrument, as the intervals are all within a pentatonic scale - basically meaning they all sound great together and in any order. It also resonates with complex overtones as you play, meaning that the sound you create will be more immersive and complex as you continue playing. Order one for yourself or a loved one here.
Great for: Relaxation, focus, mindfulness, self expression
Singing Bowl
This one serves a similar purpose to the one above, except for it’s even simpler. With only one note and infinite *overtones* (see above) to accompany it as you play, you’ll find yourself immersed and soothed by the sounds you’re making. In fact, it was originally designed in Tibet for this very purpose, often being accompanied with meditation. You can find one here.
Great for: Relaxation, focus, mindfulness
Bamboo Flute
Continuing in the territory of soothing spa-like music, a bamboo flute can be a great way to combine that feeling with learning an instrument and having a way to express yourself (Andre 3000 figured this out recently!). There are so many different kinds of bamboo flutes depending on what you want and how much you want to spend, but I’d recommend starting here.
Great for: Breath control & support, self expression, relaxation, cognitive exercise, self-actualization
Djembe
Have you ever been a part of a drum circle? If you have, you know that feeling of freedom and catharsis that comes with getting lost in a swirl of rhythms for extended periods of time. You could create those moments for yourself at home with something like a djembe. Originally hailing from West Africa, this instrument has been used for centuries, often in communal places alongside others. It’s no wonder that this instrument has carried on throughout such a long time, as drumming can be shown to improve cognitive functioning, motor functioning, mood, stress levels, and even speech & communication in some cases. Feel free to peruse the web or your local music shop to find one that calls out to you, but you can start here.
Great for: Self expression, emotional outlet/catharsis, cognitive exercise, rhythmic entrainment
Dulcimer
The last one on our list is one you may not see so often - the dulcimer. Remember that word ‘pentatonic’ from the first part of our list? This instrument is in that same kind of key, so you’re probably not going to find yourself accidentally playing a note you’re not happy with. It will feel like playing a guitar, as it has strings and frets and looks very similar. The difference is that there are fewer strings and the frets are much wider. It can be a fantastic way to enter the world of learning to play the guitar while also making sounds that you’ll immediately love. Get yourself a dulcimer here, sit down in a quiet room, and get lost in the sounds that you make with it.
Great for: Self expression, cognitive exercise, self-actualization
In the realm of mental health and self-discovery, the world of music opens up endless possibilities. Whether you find solace in the calming notes of a bamboo flute, unleash emotions through the rhythmic beats of a djembe, or explore the dulcet tones of a dulcimer, each instrument holds the key to unlocking different aspects of your well-being. By incorporating these beginner-friendly instruments into your life, you not only embark on a musical adventure but also embrace a therapeutic journey towards relaxation, self-expression, and cognitive enrichment. Begin your musical exploration today and let the harmonies resonate with your mental health and well-being.
Written by Zach Farr
At Mewsic Moves we offer a FREE 15 minute consultation and provide virtual therapy sessions to make it more convenient for you. Click here to schedule your FREE Consultation, I will be honored to support you.
Harmonizing the Holidays: Exploring the Emotional Impacts of Holiday Music
While many Christmas songs are joyful and uplifting, some may contain themes or lyrics that could be perceived as less supportive for individuals dealing with mental health issues. The impact of a song can vary from person to person, and what may be triggering for one individual may not be for another. As a music therapist working in mental health care, the holidays can be very triggering to overall mental health and the music we are bombarded with can also contribute to overall mental health decline. Below are a few Christmas songs that, depending on personal sensitivities and/or mental wellness, could be perceived as less supportive or impact mental health decline:
Blue Christmas - by Elvis Presley
This song expresses feelings of loneliness and heartache during the holiday season, which may not be uplifting for someone already struggling with mental health challenges. It also has underlying messages of being alone or single at Christmas which can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Please Come Home for Christmas - by Eagles
While a classic, this song portrays messages of separation and longing, potentially resonating with those who are missing loved ones or feeling isolated. This can also increase feelings of grief and sadness if someone has had a loss in their life in the past year or more.
I'll Be Home for Christmas - (Various Artists)
This song, while beautiful, may evoke feelings of sadness for those who are unable to be with their families during the holidays. In 2022, it was reported that 55% of Americans experienced loneliness during the holiday season.
Last Christmas - by Wham!
This song tells a story of heartbreak and disappointment, and its themes may not be supportive for those going through emotional difficulties such as a divorce, break up, isolation and more.
Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) - by Darlene Love
Similar to other songs on this list, this one conveys a sense of longing and separation during the holiday season which can contribute to elevated feelings of sadness and/or depression.
Same Old Lang Syne - by Dan Fogelberg
While not explicitly a Christmas song, it is often associated with the holiday season and tells a story of a chance meeting with an old flame. The themes of nostalgia and bittersweet memories may be challenging for some, especially when struggling with mental health conditions and remembering the times when “I felt happier” or “when I wasn’t depressed”, etc. Nostalgic songs are important when reflecting on being grateful for the positive feelings of the past but can also lead to grieving if not able to feel those same feelings in the present.
My Grown-Up Christmas List - (Various Artists):
This song reflects on wishes for a better world and personal growth. Depending on an individual's circumstances, the lyrics may be emotionally charged. At any moment, if we were to tune into the media, our world can seem somewhat hopeless or helpless and this can have a major impact on someone's mental health.
It's important to note that the impact of holiday music on mental health is highly subjective, and some individuals may find solace or connection in these songs. As a music therapist in mental health treatment I caution some of these songs if someone is struggling with mental health issues. I suggest that you be mindful of the songs and the underlying messages you are receiving and the impact on your mental health and wellness.
If you are struggling with the holidays, feeling overwhelmed or living with any mental health condition, please know that you are not alone and there is support for you and your loved ones. Please reach out to your support networks or contact a local mental health therapist that can help guide you and provide coping skills to get you through this holiday season.
What holiday songs can you add to the list that may impact overall mental wellness? We look forward to hearing from you.
At Mewsic Moves we offer a FREE 15 minute consultation and provide virtual therapy sessions to make it more convenient for you. Click here to schedule your FREE Consultation, I will be honored to support you.