News
October 15, 2025
Singing with other mums ‘can help lift postnatal depression’
Early analyses suggested that group sessions helped reduce stress hormones, pointing to a measurable biological effect
Singing in a group with other mothers could offer a significant boost in combating postnatal depression, according to initial findings from a groundbreaking study. The research suggests that participating in group singing sessions can lead to a reduction in stress hormones, indicating a tangible biological impact on maternal mental health.
Postnatal depression affects a significant number of women after childbirth, often leading to feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion that can interfere with daily life. While various treatments exist, including medication and therapy, researchers are increasingly exploring alternative and complementary approaches to support new mothers. This new study shines a light on the potential benefits of a simple, accessible, and enjoyable activity: singing.
The study, which is still in its early stages of analysis, focused on monitoring stress hormone levels in mothers who participated in regular group singing sessions. These sessions provided a supportive and nurturing environment where women could connect with others facing similar challenges and express themselves through music. Preliminary data revealed a notable decrease in the levels of cortisol, a key stress hormone, in participants following the singing sessions.
This reduction in stress hormones suggests that singing may have a direct physiological effect, helping to regulate the body's stress response system. The act of singing itself involves deep breathing and vocalization, which can promote relaxation and release tension. Furthermore, the social interaction and shared experience within the group setting can foster a sense of community and belonging, combating feelings of isolation that often accompany postnatal depression.
Researchers emphasize that these are early findings, and further investigation is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind the observed effects. However, the initial results are promising and suggest that group singing could be a valuable tool in the arsenal of treatments for postnatal depression. The accessibility and affordability of singing groups make this a particularly attractive option for many new mothers who may face barriers to accessing traditional mental health services. The hope is that further research will solidify these findings and pave the way for wider implementation of singing programs to support maternal mental health.
Postnatal depression affects a significant number of women after childbirth, often leading to feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion that can interfere with daily life. While various treatments exist, including medication and therapy, researchers are increasingly exploring alternative and complementary approaches to support new mothers. This new study shines a light on the potential benefits of a simple, accessible, and enjoyable activity: singing.
The study, which is still in its early stages of analysis, focused on monitoring stress hormone levels in mothers who participated in regular group singing sessions. These sessions provided a supportive and nurturing environment where women could connect with others facing similar challenges and express themselves through music. Preliminary data revealed a notable decrease in the levels of cortisol, a key stress hormone, in participants following the singing sessions.
This reduction in stress hormones suggests that singing may have a direct physiological effect, helping to regulate the body's stress response system. The act of singing itself involves deep breathing and vocalization, which can promote relaxation and release tension. Furthermore, the social interaction and shared experience within the group setting can foster a sense of community and belonging, combating feelings of isolation that often accompany postnatal depression.
Researchers emphasize that these are early findings, and further investigation is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind the observed effects. However, the initial results are promising and suggest that group singing could be a valuable tool in the arsenal of treatments for postnatal depression. The accessibility and affordability of singing groups make this a particularly attractive option for many new mothers who may face barriers to accessing traditional mental health services. The hope is that further research will solidify these findings and pave the way for wider implementation of singing programs to support maternal mental health.
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