Community drum circles for mental health support

Evaluating the Impact of Community-Based Mindfulness and Musical Programs on Psychiatric Measures, Drum Circle Study 2c.

Not applicable Interventional Yale University · NCT06513858

This study tests whether joining community drum circles can help people of African descent who are dealing with anxiety and depression feel less stressed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment90 (estimated)
Ages16 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorYale University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (New Haven, Connecticut and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06513858 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the impact of a community-based music mindfulness program, specifically communal drumming, on stress management among Persons of African Descent experiencing anxiety and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants aged 16 and older will engage in weekly drum circle sessions over an 8-week period, with assessments of stress levels and physiological measures taken before, during, and after the sessions. The study aims to provide culturally relevant support and gather feedback through focus groups to enhance understanding of the intervention's effectiveness.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 16 and older from marginalized communities, particularly Persons of African Descent, who are experiencing anxiety and depression.

Not a fit: Patients younger than 16 years old will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could offer a culturally relevant and effective method for reducing anxiety and depression in marginalized communities.

How similar studies have performed: While there is evidence supporting the benefits of music and mindfulness in stress management, this specific approach focusing on communal drumming within marginalized communities is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* ages 16 and older

Exclusion Criteria:

* ages 15 and younger

Where this trial is running

New Haven, Connecticut and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Mental Health IssueCOVID-19MindfulnessMeditationMusic
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.