CompletedInterventional

Community singing interventions for postnatal depression

Postnatal depression affects more than one in ten new mothers. Finding the right support can be difficult, and waiting lists for talking therapies are often long. This study, run by King's College London, is testing a community music programme called Melodies for Mums. Mothers living in London with babies aged between zero and nine months who are feeling low or anxious may be eligible. Half of the mothers will join weekly group singing sessions straight away for 10 weeks, while the other half will join after a 10-week wait. The sessions take place in local children's centres or online. The researchers want to see if singing together helps mothers recover from postnatal depression faster and improves their relationship with their baby. It offers a gentle, non-medical approach to support emotional wellbeing during early parenthood.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Sponsor

King's College London

Enrolment target

332

Start

01 Sep 2021

Estimated completion

28 Sep 2023

Postnatal depression

What is this study about?

Having a baby brings huge changes, and it is very common to feel overwhelmed or low. More than one in ten new mothers experience postnatal depression, which can make daily life and bonding with a baby feel especially hard. While medications and talking therapies can be helpful, many women face long waiting times or feel uncomfortable seeking clinical treatment. Because of this, doctors and researchers are exploring creative, community-based ways to support maternal mental health.

Singing in groups has already been shown to lift spirits, reduce stress, and help people feel connected. Research also shows that singing to babies can calm them and help build a loving relationship between mother and child. This study tests a special 10-week programme called 'Melodies for Mums' to see whether group singing sessions can significantly ease symptoms of postnatal depression.

Led by researchers at King's College London, this project aims to provide an accessible, welcoming space for mothers from all backgrounds. If the study shows that singing groups offer real, measurable relief, programmes like this could become a widely available option across the NHS and local communities to support new families.

Key takeaways

Tests a 10-week group singing programme designed to ease postnatal depression.
Open to mothers in London with babies aged between zero and nine months.
Participants are placed by chance to start singing right away or after a 10-week wait.
Sessions take place in local children's centres or online and require no singing experience.
Completely free to join, with no changes needed to your usual medical care.

Who may be eligible?

This study is open to women aged 18 and older who live in London and have a baby aged between zero and nine months. To take part, you must be experiencing symptoms of postnatal depression, which the researchers will check using a simple and widely used mood questionnaire called the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale.

You will also need a good understanding of English and access to a smartphone, tablet, or computer with an internet connection. This is needed to complete study surveys and to join online singing sessions if required.

You cannot join if your baby is older than nine months or if you are unable to understand the study details and give informed consent. You do not need any prior singing experience or musical talent to take part.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

I am a woman aged 18 or older.
I have a baby aged between zero and nine months.
I live in London (specifically within reach of Lambeth/Southwark or online).
I have been feeling down, anxious, or low since having my baby.
I have access to an internet-connected smartphone, tablet, or computer.
I can understand and communicate comfortably in English.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you will be placed into one of two groups by chance, like flipping a coin. One group starts the 10-week singing programme straight away. The other group is placed on a waiting list and will receive the exact same 10-week singing programme after the waiting period ends.

The sessions involve meeting once a week in a friendly group with other mothers and their babies. They are held either at local children's centres in Lambeth and Southwark or online, depending on current public health guidance. You will sing gentle songs, play simple music, and spend time interacting with your baby in a relaxed setting.

There are no medications or medical tests involved. You will simply be asked to fill out short questionnaires about your mood and wellbeing at the start, during, and after the programme. In total, your active involvement will last around 10 to 20 weeks, depending on whether you start immediately or after the waiting period.

Potential risks and benefits

A key benefit of taking part is the opportunity to learn new songs, bond with your baby, and meet other new mothers who understand how you feel. Past studies suggest group singing can help mothers feel better faster. There are very few physical risks involved in joining a singing group. However, sharing your feelings and taking part in group activities when feeling low can sometimes feel tiring or emotionally challenging. You are free to take a break or leave the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect any healthcare support you or your baby receive.

Locations (3)

King's College London
Approximate
London, England
Maudsley Hospital
Approximate
London, England
University College London
Approximate
London, England

Common questions

Do I need to be a good singer to join?

Not at all. The sessions are entirely about having fun, relaxing, and connecting with your baby. You do not need any singing experience or musical skill.

Do I have to pay to take part?

No, joining the study and attending the singing sessions is completely free for all participants.

Can I still take my regular medication or see my therapist?

Yes. This programme is designed to work alongside your regular care, and taking part will not interfere with any treatments you are currently receiving.

What happens if I cannot attend every session?

Life with a new baby can be unpredictable. While attending as many sessions as possible is encouraged, missing a session due to illness or naps will not remove you from the study.

What if my baby cries during the group?

Babies crying, needing feeds, or requiring nappy changes is completely expected and welcome. The groups are designed to be baby-friendly and relaxed.

How to find out more

Carmine Pariante

carmine.pariante@kcl.ac.uk +44 (0)20 7848 0807 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.