The Link Between Music and Mental Health
Music has existed for thousands of years and the styles and genres are always changing and growing. One thing that has always stayed constant, is its ability to aid with mental health and dealing with stress.
Music has a way of captivating hearts and swaying emotions. From playing an instrument, singling along to the radio, or just listening to music, there are many beneficial outcomes. Music has multiple factors that affect one’s mood and ways to deal with stress.
Speed of the music
When looking for music that can help with mental health, it’s important to realize that the tempo or speed of the music can have a great effect on the way a person feels. If the speed is fast and upbeat, this can increase a person’s heart rate making them feel more uplifted or energetic. If a person is looking for motivation to move around and get things done, then more upbeat music with a fast tempo could be a good choice.
On the flip side, if the tempo is slower, the heart rate can slow and the body will relax and naturally calm itself. This in turn can help the mind and muscles relax. Songs with slower tempos are helpful for those who are trying to calm down or go to sleep.
Your Favorite Songs
We all know the feeling of turning on the radio and hearing our favorite songs being played. Our mood instantly lifts, and we might even feel like singing along. This is due to the fact that hearing the song causes a release of dopamine, also known as the “feel-good” hormone. The feeling can be stronger if there are positive emotions or memories linked to the song.
Even listening to the song on its own can help release dopamine and increase one’s mood. Having a playlist of songs that increase positive emotions can be helpful, especially for the days that may be a little bit harder than the rest.
Lyrics
The lyrics within a song can help with mental health in a wide variety of ways. Lyrics can help when a person might be feeling alone by showing them that other people are in similar circumstances. There are songs for every situation, whether it’s a breakup, a rough day at work, or even a hard week.
Lyrics can also help individuals learn more about what they are feeling and can even help them express themselves. Sometimes writing your own lyrics, even if it’s not put to music, can help the mind process and regulate emotions.
Instrumental Music
When it comes to stress, studies have shown that listening to instrumental music can decrease stress more than music with lyrics. When a person listens to instrumental music, their brain can focus solely on the chords and melody of the song. This creates a relaxing environment and has even been shown to lower cortisol levels.
Here is a quick list of a few different types of instrumental music:
Classical music is one of the more well-known types and has been shown to be the most beneficial style.
Ambient music can range from the sounds of waves with seagulls to bird calls with soft piano playing over it.
Film soundtracks have a unique ability to not only calm the mind but also release dopamine if the person has an attachment to the film.
Overall, music has a way of connecting with people and their emotions. There are so many benefits that music can help with from stress to increasing one’s mood. The key is to listen to what makes you happy.
References:
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/the_role_of_music_in_stress_management
https://jedfoundation.org/resource/how-music-can-improve-your-mental-health/