Tune into music therapy to aid mental health

MUSIC is always there for us.

But did you know that music can do more than just entertain us? Music therapy is a powerful intervention, and it can profoundly influence our mental health.

Music can help us manage stress. Whether you're dealing with a difficult work situation or struggling with a personal problem, it can be a great stress reliever. Listening to your favourite songs can help you relax and take your mind off of things.

Music therapy has gained recognition as an effective tool to promote mental health and well-being.

Reduced anxiety and depression:

Music therapy has been found to significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. A 2017 review of 27 studies involving over 1500 patients found music therapy helped to lower symptoms of depression in those with mood disorders while reducing symptoms of anxiety in those with anxiety disorders.

A similar study involving cancer patients indicated that music therapy helped reduce anxiety levels as well as improve quality of life.

Improved cognitive function:

Listening to music can strengthen neural connections in the brain, leading to improved cognitive function. A study conducted in Norway found music therapy helped to improve memory and attention in patients with dementia, while a study carried out in the US found music can help to improve cognitive performance in healthy adults.

Management of chronic pain:

Music therapy has been found to be an effective tool in managing chronic pain. A 2014 study by UK scientists found music therapy helped to reduce the use of pain-killing medication in patients with chronic pain. The research also showed that music therapy improved patients' physical, emotional, and social functioning.

Autism spectrum disorder:

Music therapy can be an effective therapy for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Alternative mental health interventions such as music therapy can offer a non-invasive and effective way to improve mental health. It is a non-invasive, safe, and effective intervention that has been shown to have numerous benefits for mental health.

Music can bring people together and promote social interaction. Whether it's through attending live music events, participating in music classes, or jamming with friends.

This social connection can help combat the feelings of loneliness and isolation all too common in our fastpaced, technology-driven world.