Working with Communities of Young People to Develop a Music-Based Program for Mental Health


Abstract

Depression and anxiety rates among adolescents and young people are troublingly high. However, only around 90% of affected young people seek professional help. Digital interventions such as smart phone apps are of increasing interest, but challenges exist to making these engaging for users. Research shows that 80% of young people turn to music to cope with psychological distress. This talk will outline the development of an app co-designed by young people that uses music to increase awareness of mental health issues in young people.