Music matters – A qualitative evaluation of a nurse-led structured, group-based music program complementary to early intervention for service users with first-episode psychosis

Abstract

Abstract Background: Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness that has lasting negative impact on functional level, and quality of life. While music therapy has shown promise in improving these areas, there is a lack of research exploring the impact of music programs led by mental health care professionals without formal music therapy training in the context of early intervention in psychosis. This study aimed to conduct a qualitative evaluation of a once weekly, 12-week, nurse-led music group, in the constellation of a band, offered as an adjunct to early intervention in young people with first-episode psychosis. The specific objectives were to explore social interaction and experiences of participants and instructors in relation to the music group and provide focus points for implementation in clinical practice. Method: The study utilized Interpretive Description, collecting data through participant observation (6 sessions x 1.5 hrs; 9 hrs in total), key informant interviews (n=1), and group (n=4) and email-based (n=2) interviews. The data was transcribed, thematized, and analyzed using NVivo12 and Interpretive Description inductive analysis. Results: The analysis resulted in three main themes: Practicalities of the music program, Restored identity, and Music as medicine reflecting the potential of the music group to contribute to a sense of non-patient identity, decreasing symptoms related to mental illness, foster social relationships and a feeling of belonging to a musical community. Conclusion: Participation in music groups can be a possible promoter of recovery. However, sustainability appears contingent on the skills and resources of the facilitator (i.e. nurse). Suggestions for a program theory and clinical implications are presented and discussed. Trial registration: This is a non-experimental study, and according to Danish law, registration is not required.