17.9. Alternative therapies for depression and anxiety: Music therapy

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17.9 Alternative Therapies for Depression and Anxiety: Music Therapy

Depression and anxiety are extremely common mental health conditions that can have a devastating impact on a person's quality of life. Although there are many conventional therapies available, such as medications and psychotherapy, some people may benefit from alternative therapies. One of these therapies is music therapy.

What is Music Therapy?

Music therapy is an expressive therapy that uses music to help people improve or maintain their physical and mental health. It involves a wide range of activities, including listening to music, singing, playing musical instruments and writing music. Music therapy is delivered by qualified music therapists who are trained to use music therapeutically.

How can Music Therapy help with Depression and Anxiety?

Music therapy can be an effective tool for treating depression and anxiety for several reasons. First, music has the ability to directly affect our mood. It can make us feel happy, sad, relaxed or energized. This means that music can be used to help lift a person's mood when they are feeling down or to calm them when they are anxious.

Secondly, playing a musical instrument or singing can be a form of emotional expression. This can be particularly helpful for people with depression or anxiety who may have difficulty expressing their feelings in other ways.

Third, music can help distract the mind from negative thoughts or worries. This can be helpful for people with anxiety, who often find themselves stuck in a cycle of worrying thoughts.

Scientific Evidence

Studies have shown that music therapy can be effective in treating depression and anxiety. For example, a 2017 review of studies on music therapy for depression concluded that music therapy has a significant effect on reducing symptoms of depression.

Another 2016 study that examined the use of music therapy in people with anxiety found that music therapy can significantly lower anxiety levels. Study participants also reported improvements in other aspects of their mental health, such as self-esteem and quality of life.

How is Music Therapy performed?

A music therapy session usually begins with the therapist and client discussing any problems or concerns the client may have. The therapist may then suggest various musical activities to help address these issues. For example, if a client is feeling depressed, the therapist might suggest that they sing a song that normally makes them feel happy. If a client is feeling anxious, the therapist may suggest that they listen to calm, relaxing music.

Music therapy sessions can be individual or group, and the music can be played live by the therapist or client, or it can be pre-recorded. Music therapy can be used in conjunction with other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy.

Conclusion

Music therapy is a promising alternative therapy for depression and anxiety. It can help improve mood, provide an outlet for emotional expression, and distract the mind from negative thoughts. Although more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of music therapy, current evidence suggests that it may be a valuable addition to conventional treatment for depression and anxiety.

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