Drum circles are now being used in the mental health field for the purpose of healing, and are considered a type of therapy that incorporates both rhythm and people. These circles are not about music alone, it is about healing, togetherness, and being able to convey feelings without necessarily using words.
In mental health therapy, the role of drum circles has been identified as a way of reducing stress, improving communication, and bringing people together. Drumming is a form of music therapy and is rhythmic in nature which makes it easier for participants to engage in creative activities while enjoying the safety of a group session. It can be especially helpful for people with anxiety disorder, depression, and PTSD since drumming brings the mind to focus.
Drumming also has an effect on the body since it is a physical activity that triggers the brain to produce endorphins, the body’s natural chemicals that help one feel good and even elicit a feeling of euphoria. Furthermore, a drum circle is also a collective activity that erases loneliness since participants are connected with others, and this can be incredibly important for people with mental health disorders.
As with other similar activities, healthcare professionals and therapists are gradually incorporating drum circles into their treatment and rehabilitation programs because of their availability and efficacy. These songs do not need any musical skills and can be performed by anyone of any age and do not need any prior experience in music, and can also be modified to address various needs of a patient.
Drum circles remain to be widely used as an adjunct therapy with research and clinical experiences demonstrating the positive impact of drumming in addressing mental health issues. They are a representation of a more balanced way of living that draws from the traditions of group music for healing. To get more information about how the drum circles can be used in therapy, there are many resources, which can be helpful, for example, the site of the American Music Therapy Association which contains more information and researches.