Young People’s Wellbeing Matters this Mental Health Awareness Week

Young people on the GMYN Wellbeing Matters Programme in Salford have something to say this Mental Health Awareness Week:

It keeps me steady on my feet.”

“It gets me out and about and gives me a positive activity to get involved in.”

“My head’s got bigger with all the things I’ve learnt.”

As part of the Wellbeing Matters Programme, GMYN hosts weekly music sessions for young people aged 16-25 in Salford. We provide a space for them to pickup instruments, develop skills and improve their wellbeing – regardless of their musical ability.

During sessions young people have access to musical equipment which they are free to explore with support from a trained music professional including:

• Acoustic guitars
• Electric guitars
• An electric drum kit
• A professional mic set up
• Keyboards
• Music production software

Recently young people have been developing their own music track, layering vocals with live recordings using Groove Agent to bring it all together.

Based on reflections gathered during the sessions, it’s clear young people have developed their creative skills through collaboration with peers, resulting in improved wellbeing.

As it’s Mental Health Awareness Week we thought it would be a great chance to share what we do on the Wellbeing Matters Programme. Giving this year’s theme is #ToHelpMyAnxiety it’s great to hear that sessions are helping young people spend more time outside the home, connecting with peers whilst doing something positive. The importance of this is something highlighted by The Mental Health Foundation in a recent article explaining techniques on coping with feelings of anxiety.

Dealing with anxiety can be hard. But there are some things we can do to manage these tough feelings such as connecting with people and talking about how you feel.”

‘What can we do to cope with feelings of anxiety?’ by the Mental Health Foundation

As well as music sessions, GMYN delivers art workshops and monthly socials – from bowling to cinema trips, games nights and action sports there’s something for everyone!

If you would like to know more or get involved – get in touch with Programme Coordinator Susie via email: [email protected] or mobile: 07511579746