FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Veterans come together in support of mental health with a new album of inspired songs about resiliency.
Learn about and listen to the artists here: https://cmhanb.ca/musicforthemind-veterans/
Fredericton, November 12, 2022 – The Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick (CMHA of NB) presents the second album of Music for the Mind: Veterans Edition an album featuring original songs from Veterans who have found solace in writing and performing music and poetry. It is a 14-track collection of songs about Veterans, inspired by Veterans, for Veterans, all of whom wanted to support and bring awareness to mental wellbeing after their service. The album launch is today at the Douglas Hazen Center in Oromocto, which features a dinner and a concert showcasing featured songs on the album by five Veterans.
Music for the Mind was the first compilation album that CMHA of NB produced in 2019. In early 2021 Pathways to Better Days in Newfoundland and Labrador (a not-for-profit group developed in 2019 as a PTSD Peer Support Group for Veterans), approached CMHA of NB and discussions were had to put out a call to Veterans. Many Veterans find solace in writing songs, creating music, and singing their songs about their mental health journey. Journeys that civilians will never bare witness to but can get a glimpse into what our soldiers who chose to serve and protect us and our country endured. Born out of the trenches, was Music for the Mind: Veterans Edition.
13 Veterans were selected to work with StudioZProductions to create and master the 14-track album of authentic songs that are heartfelt, inspiring, and raw. All Veterans had their opportunity to record their songs in studio, and they donated their songs and their time to the Music for the Mind: Veterans Edition album.
A fundraiser for mental health initiatives throughout New Brunswick, Music for the Mind: Veterans Edition is available for download through CD Baby on all music platforms including Apple Music, ITunes, Spotify, Amazon, and YouTube to name a few. Music lovers can also purchase the Music for the Mind: Veterans Edition CD by contacting Diana.gregory@cmhanb.ca
Also donating time was producer Mike Oz of StudioZProductions , who is a mental health counselor as well “I feel blessed to be able to once again marry my two favorite things: music and mental health therapy. This year working with Veterans has brought me close to the many struggles they face in dealing with PTSD, anxiety among other issues. The music we have made is both sad and nostalgic at times while also raw and punchy. The lyrics really drive the project as they account for the pain and suffering and hope these brave men and women have faced and continue to face.”
Music for the Mind: Veterans Edition is about breaking the stigma surrounding all aspects of mental health and wellbeing, while showing recovery and resiliency. “Mental health is not always sunshine, and rainbows and it would be unjust to ignore the somber side. This album invites the outside world into someone’s mental health journey and gives people the insight to know that they are not alone. The songs show that recovery is possible, and that there is light, hope and healing in their journey”, says Christa Baldwin, Executive Director of CMHA of NB.
To learn more about the 13 artists, and listen to their featured songs click https://cmhanb.ca/musicforthemind-veterans
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For more information, contact:
Lori Wheeler
Director of Communications, CMHA of NB
506 447-7153
Lori.wheeler@cmhanb.ca
About the Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick
Founded in 1950, as the province-wide leader and champion for mental health, the Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick is the most established, most extensive community mental health organization in New Brunswick. Through a presence in communities across the province, CMHA of NB facilitates access to the resources people require to maintain and improve mental health and community integration, build resilience and support recovery from mental illness. For more information visit www.cmhanb.ca