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how music therapy impacts our mental health individuals of differing backgrounds, ages, and cultures can respond to music in a variety of ways, but all can receive the benefits of this therapeutic approach. music therapy is an evidence-based appr

Music Therapy

Posted on 5/21/2022

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Music Therapy

How Music Therapy Impacts Our Mental Health

Individuals of differing backgrounds, ages, and cultures can respond to music in a variety of ways, but all can receive the benefits of this therapeutic approach. Music therapy is an evidence-based approach to help facilitate goal achievement by reducing stress, improving mood, self-expression and overall mental wellness. According to the Cleveland Clinic (2020), music therapy was first utilized in 1945 on military service members to decrease trauma triggers. Among children and adolescents, music can help combat behavior disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, trauma and substance use disorders. Research in music therapy supports its effectiveness in six areas: psychological, emotional, physical, spiritual, cognitive and social. A short list of benefits to this approach include:

Anxiety reduction
Lessen feelings of isolation
Reduce pain
Relaxation and/or improved sleep
Promote a sense of control
Increase the development of healthy coping skills
Bring people together socially
Lowering blood pressure
Improve memory

Try it at home:

What song do you listen to when you’re feeling happy or sad? Read or listen to the lyrics and talk about their meaning. Do these lyrics relate to you? Why or why not?

By Kristen Fitzgerald

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