What works: Choir singing

All types of singing have positive psychological effects. The act of singing releases endorphins , the brain's 'feel good' chemicals. Singing in front of a crowd naturally builds confidence, which has broad and long-lasting effects on general well-being.

What the evidence says:

Choir singing…

  • Enhances mood and positive emotions (fact: recent research has shown that singing in a choir is more effective at improving mood than participating in a team sport!)
  • Reduces stress and lowers blood pressure
  • Improves mental alertness
  • Has a positive impact on one sense of self, social–identity and feelings of connected-ness

Where’s the evidence?

  • The Mental Elf
  • European Journal of Public Health: 
    Williams, Elyse, Genevieve A. Dingle, and Stephen Clift. "A Systematic Review of Mental Health and Wellbeing Outcomes of Group Singing for Adults with a Mental Health Condition." European Journal of Public Health 28.6 (2018): 1035-042.

How to get involved:

Indie, Contemporary, Classical, Rock…. Choose a choir whose music selection excites you!