"The music was as much a gift as sunshine, as rain, as any blessing ever prayed for" — Bebe Moore Campbell

Last week, I was working with one of my YES Youth Coaching clients, and found myself reflecting on a couple of potentially triggering events that she brought up. Let's be real, there's some pretty unique challenges faced by today's youth. My own school days, though not influenced by the constant buzz of social media [do you remember Bebo and MySpace? Yeah... time's have change haha], still had their share of trials. Yet, the landscape has shifted dramatically, with digital platforms intensifying the pressures and anxieties that come with growing up.

A revelation that struck me a few years back when I was researching my first TEDx Talk was the profound impact recent global events have had on our collective mental health. In July of 2021, the WHO guesstimating that it might take adults over a decade to recover from the emotional toll of these times was a wake-up call, emphasizing the even greater strain on our younger generation. The current anxiety endemic is a clear signal that we must find effective ways to support them through these turbulent waters.

In the midst of this, I had a deeply moving session with a young songwriting mentee who was grappling with an unimaginable loss - her father recently unalived himself, and - like many of us - she preferred to wear a mask of happiness than let herself actually feel. I get it. I remember this well from when I was a teenager. The conversation was a poignant reminder for me of the power of music and songwriting as therapeutic outlets. These tools offer more than just a creative escape; they provide a structured space for expression and processing of complex emotions.

Here's one of the first songs I ever wrote to help me understand overcome the trauma.

I re-recorded and released an acoustic Emma G version too.

Yep. Songwriting, in particular, has been a beacon for me and many I work with to use the process of writing lyrics as a means to untangle the web of thoughts and feelings that can often overwhelm us. By putting pen to paper, we give voice to our inner experiences, transforming them into something tangible and, in many ways, more manageable.

I'm continually inspired by the resilience and creativity of the young people I mentor. Their ability to channel their experiences into music is a testament to the healing power of artistic expression. It's a reminder that, even in the darkest of times, we can find a rhythm that guides us toward light and understanding.

Music has always been a constant companion for humanity, offering solace and joy in equal measure. In our current times, its role as a healer and connector is more important than ever. Whether you're dealing with your own struggles or supporting someone else through theirs, remember that music can be a powerful ally.

Stay strong, keep the tunes flowing, and remember that every note you play or sing is a step toward healing and growth.

Have an amazing day on purpose,

Emma G

P.S. If you've ever felt the urge to express yourself but weren't sure how, consider giving songwriting a try. It's not about hitting the right notes but about letting your soul speak. And if want to learn more about how I can support this process for you or your teenager, let's hop on a call.

Want more?

• Click here to find out where I'm playing this month.
• Click here to read the "Music + Mental Health" blog.
• Click here to join Emma G Nation for exclusive content over on Patreon - including ALL of the updates around my lates Write a Song a Day Challenge!
• Click here to find out more about, or make a tax deductible donation to Youth Expression through Songwriting coaching.

When you're ready, here are the three main ways we can work together:

• One on one coaching - helping you [or your teen!] rewrite your perceptions of yourself, and the way the world perceives you: one powerful song at a time?even if you've never written a song before.Perfect for those of you who are interested in unconventional coaching.
• Commissioned song - harnessing your brand, business or organization in one powerful anthem that can be used for teambuilding and rapport, brand-building, and advertising.Perfect for companies, organizations, or entrepreneurs wanting to enhance or improve workplace culture, and are mission, vision, and purpose oriented.
• Edutainment + workshopping - using keynote speaking and music together to elevate your business, organization or event: specializing in stress management, developing and maintaining productive and positive workplace culture, mental and emotional health and well-being, and the JEDI mindset [Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion].Perfect for event planners and coordinators who are looking for something impactful for their next retreat, conference, or training day.