Reflective Practice Using Music-Based Program to Support Self-Awareness and Mental Health with Women Refugees from the Middle-East

Includes bibliographical references (pages 37-39).The goal of this project is to facilitate and run a women's group with Middle Eastern Arabic refugee women living in San Diego County using a music-based program, the Circle of Education, which focuses on building learning readiness in preschool children. Most Middle Eastern refugee women have experienced trauma and violence in their country and are at-risk for mental health problems such as depression. This project is needed to provide support to the women and uses music and reflection to help them deal with their feelings and pain. Through music, refugee women can help build self-awareness, confidence and subsequently decrease stress and a sense of isolation. The purpose of this pilot project is to provide a group of Middle-Eastern women refugees a space through the use of music that encourages personal well-being habits by reflecting and exploring their feelings and experiences that ultimately may lead to improved interactions with their children and families. Another goal of the project was to promote self-awareness and social emotional skills in the women by introducing music and lessons that teach the importance of emotional regulation and esteem-building