A qualitative exploration of a community-based singing activity on the recovery process of people living with mental illness

Introduction This study first aims to qualitatively explore the benefits of a community-based singing activity taking place in Montreal, Canada. The second aim is to identify the activity's essential components that potentially explain these benefits. Method An exploratory evaluative design involving qualitative descriptive methods was used. Thirteen individuals with various mental illnesses, the voice teacher and the activity coordinator participated in a group interview. Findings Four main benefits emerged from the participants' interviews: (1) rediscovering identity and gaining self-confidence; (2) resuming and engaging in meaningful occupations and projects; (3) learning to collaborate with others and improving social skills; (4) improving physical condition and cognitive skills. The essential components of the activity were identified as: a normalizing environment and the absence of stigma; high expectations and support for participants; teacher-led stress relief exercises and activities; the use of singing as an activity to express emotions and stimulate cognitive functions. Conclusion This community-based singing activity appears to have contributed to the recovery process of its participants. There is a clear role for occupational therapists to promote, facilitate and support such activities outside traditional mental health services, since the participants were looking for occupational participation opportunities in normalizing community contexts.