Music is powerful and can evoke emotions or memories more than words. That is why Hans Christian Andersen said “where words fail, music speaks”. Music therapy research shows that music can improve anxiety and depression symptoms immediately and can aid long lasting changes. In this blog, we will briefly explore the benefits of music therapy for people living with anxiety and/or depression.
Music therapy uses music as a therapeutic tool to address physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. Music therapists design unique, measurable goals for each individual and regularly assess these goals. Music therapy is an allied health profession that can show positive results both as a standalone therapy or in conjunction with other forms of therapy.
Music therapy is a safe, cost effective method to improve the life of anyone living with anxiety or depression. Music is used to engage the brain and evoke emotional responses. Both music listening and music creation can encourage regulation, relaxation, confidence and motivation.
Studies have shown that listening to music can activate the release of neurotransmitters in the brain which incldue seratonin and dopamine. This stimulates an immediate change of mood and an reduction in symptoms. Music therapy can also provide a safe and non-threatening space to people to express and process emotions. This is especially beneficial for anyone that finds communicating through words challenging.
Music therapy can also encourage the development of coping skills and strategies for managing mental health concerns. Creating music through improvisation or song writing can be a powerful form of self-expression which can help with emotional understanding. Listening to preferred music that evokes positive emotions can help shift negative thought patterns to improve overall mood. By gaining a deeper understanding of which songs offer positive or negative affect can stimulate unique playlists specifically created to safely move through emotions in to a better mood.
Another benefit of music therapy is that it can provide social mutual support. The sense of community that is developed through group music therapy is a powerful tool which can unify people. This also reduces feelings of isolation and improves overall wellbeing.
Music therapy has been shown to be an effective therapeutic tool for those living with anxiety and/or depression. Benefits of music therapy can improve mental health and overall wellbeing. Whether it be through neurotransmitter release, the safe outlet of emotional expression, development of coping skills or the social connection of community.
If you are looking for ways to manage your anxiety or depressive symptoms, please feel free to contact me.