Midlands Prison facilitated ‘Creativity for Wellbeing’ workshops delivered by Mental Health Ireland for prisoners and prison staff to coincide with World Mental Health month.
Midlands Prison also promoted mental health well-being in partnership with Laois Local Live Performance Scheme where some local musicians performed live music in the prisons Work Training Unit during this week.
Research shows that taking part in prison music projects helps participants develop social skills and thus contributes to their rehabilitation and desistence from crime post release.
Researchers have found that music can lower anxiety and help with symptoms of depressions.
Joyce Clarke Chief Officer Work Training said: “Reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety and emotional distress, is extremely important within a prison environment.
“Mental health is our mental well-being that enables us to cope with the stresses of life.
“Mental Health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act.
“It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.
“Mental Health Ireland’s workshops aim to help you understand mental health and wellbeing and to be aware of some of the factors that can affect mental health.
“While exploring some of the ways mental health and wellbeing can be fostered, supported and enhanced as an individual, in the community and in workplaces.”
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