New research:
“Impact of a music therapy program on mental health and school attendance among female adolescents in Kasai-Central province, Democratic Republic of Congo”
This second study in recent weeks on the impact of the Healing in Harmony model has been published in Global Mental Health by Cambridge University Press.
The research followed 483 girls aged 10–14 who participated in the Healing in Harmony program, implemented by World Vision and Make Music Matter as part of the Equality for Girls’ Access to Learning (EGAL) project, funded by Global Affairs Canada.
Results showed that participation in the Healing in Harmony program was associated with sustained improvements in mental health and school attendance, and increases in participants’ self-esteem. Effects were sustained up to 17 months after the program ended.
The study concluded “these results align with previous research on the Healing in Harmony program, an integrated music and psychological care program, demonstrating its value in ongoing humanitarian crises.” It provides “critical insights into addressing the unique needs of trauma-affected children exposed to conflict in low- and middle-income country contexts.”
READ: “Impact of a music therapy program on mental health and school attendance among female adolescents in Kasai-Central province, Democratic Republic of Congo” by Lisa Zook, Ali Bitenga Alexandre, Michelle M. Hood, and Sioban D. Harlow.
Learn more about the EGAL project and the inspiring young women who took part.
