Improving Mental Health Through Music
Although we cannot be sure exactly when human beings began listening to music, scientists do know why. Listening to music benefits us individually and collectively. Researchers think one of the most important functions of music is to create a feeling of cohesion or social connectedness. Music remains a powerful way of uniting people.
Music changes the brain. Researchers have found that listening to music triggers the release of several chemicals that play a role in brain function and mental health. Music has the power to improve our physical, mental and emotional health. Especially now, in times when people are feeling sad, stressed and isolated because of the COVID-19 pandemic, turning to music can do wonders to improve mental well-being.
Because of its rhythmic and repetitive aspects, music engages the neocortex of our brain, which calms us and reduces impulsivity. We often utilize music to match or alter our mood. Studies have shown that listening to music can reduce anxiety, blood pressure and pain as well as improve sleep quality, mood, mental alertness and memory. Music can raise your mood and fend off depression. It can also improve blood flow in ways similar to medications, lower your levels of stress-related hormones and ease pain. Listening to music before an operation can even improve post-surgery outcomes.
The top genre for depressed listeners is rock, followed closely by alternative, pop and hip-hop/rap. Classical music is a winner at helping you focus. Music that has a tempo of 60 bpm (beats per minute) increases the efficiency of the brain in processing information. The best way to use it is to have it playing softly in the background as you get on with your tasks.
As with art, make music yourself! Music making includes singing and playing an instrument. Learning to play a musical instrument can offer a sense of mastery and self-esteem, while enhancing brain activity. Singing may be the simplest way to get started.
Music can inspire and entertain, but it also has powerful psychological effects that can improve your health and well-being. Instead of thinking of music as pure entertainment, consider some of the major mental benefits of incorporating music into your everyday life. You might find that you feel more motivated, happy and relaxed as a result.
Here are today’s Wellness Wednesday Program reading resources:
“The Benefits of Listening to Music”, Rebecca Joy Stanborough, Healthline, reviewed April 1, 2020,
“Music Can Be a Great Mood Booster; New report highlights link between music and mental well-being,” by Sarah Elizabeth Adler, June 30, 2020,
“How Listening to Music Can Have Psychological Benefits,” By Kendra Cherry, Very Well Mind, reviewed December 10, 2019,
“The Impact of Music Therapy on Mental Health,” By Molly Warren, December 19, 2016,
