Music Therapy Program for Adolescents Aged 13 to 18 with Emotional Difficulties Including Depression and Anxiety

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate the effects of a music therapy program in adolescents aged 13 to 18 years who experience emotional difficulties, primarily depression and sometimes anxiety. The study seeks to understand recruitment challenges, whether music therapy reduces depression and anxiety symptoms, and how adolescents perceive the impact of music therapy on their health and well-being. It builds on previous findings showing benefits of music therapy in adults and an initial pilot study in adolescents. Participants will receive ten weekly individual sessions of music therapy lasting 45 to 60 minutes each, alongside their usual treatment such as cognitive therapy and possibly medication. Sessions include warm-up exercises, active music therapy with popular music, and creation of a personal playlist for home listening. The therapy is based on relational and resource-oriented approaches and is delivered by professional music therapists. Participants will be assessed before therapy, immediately after the program, and three months later using questionnaires measuring depression, anxiety, quality of life, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, emotional regulation, and musics emotional impact. Qualitative interviews will also explore participants experiences. Safety measures include psychiatric screening before inclusion and crisis plans during the study. The total participation spans about four months, including therapy and follow-up assessments.

Music Therapy for Adolescents with Emotional Difficulties