Breathe Melodies for Mums helped me come back to life!

Although the programme is designed to reach women experiencing symptoms of or with a diagnosis of postnatal depression, there is no pressure to talk about these symptoms in the room – the focus is on learning a new skill and making connections with others experiencing similar feelings.

Finda’s GP sent her information about the programme and suggested it could be a good support for her to try. I asked Finda what her initial thoughts were about Breathe Melodies for Mums.

She told me that she wasn’t excited and feared it might be boring and that she was concerned about the potential language barrier. She was also worried about how to get to the place as well as arranging childcare for her other child. Despite her apprehension, she found the courage to attend the group and was pleasantly surprised to find that her worries had been unfounded – it was an incredibly welcoming and supportive environment.

“It turned out to be the loveliest thing I have ever done in my life. I never wanted to miss a session. The staff were the most welcoming and supportive people I have ever met. There was no stigma, and they would help me with whatever I needed. They were just so lovely.”

I asked Finda if she has noticed any differences in herself and her wellbeing from when she started the programme compared to now.

“I felt like I was in my own world, and not in other people’s world; Breathe Melodies for Mums gave me the light to see that it’s not only me that felt this way and that you can remove yourself from the situation and feel happy and confident again.”

We talk about what she has taken from the programme. Singing was only one part of her journey; she also found solace in connecting with other mothers and understanding that she was not alone. She has also shared her new love of singing with the rest of her family.

“When I’m singing Faiz is always looking at me and my older son loves it too, whenever I’m singing, he’s laughing. I’m singing the songs at home. You don’t know how good I’m feeling about singing and interacting with other mums, it’s the best thing.”

I ask Finda to tell me how she felt when she was singing in the sessions and if she had any favourite songs. She started laughing and singing Occolay Occo…

“I felt excited and emotional, and the songs are spiritual. When I close my eyes, you know, and sing the lovely, lovely songs, I feel so happy. Singing has improved my mood and my confidence. Even singing to your children, helped me interact, it made me feel like I was a brilliant mum.”

She then sings the lyrics to There’s a Fire… “There’s a river flowing in my soul, there’s a river flowing in my soul, and it’s telling me that I’m somebody, there’s a river flowing in my soul…”

I had one final question for Finda, would she recommend Breathe Melodies for Mums to other women? She said “Of course.” She continues, “When you go there, you’ll just want to keep going back and singing with everyone. It’s a supportive environment and everyone is so lovely.”

If you or anyone you know could benefit from the Breathe Melodies for Mums programme please head over to our website and learn more.

Register here for new programmes starting in Streatham and Stockwell from 9^th May or here for programmes starting in Tower Hamlets from 15th May.