The Neuroscience of Music and Mood Regulation
- Andrea Alvarez
- Jun 9
- 3 min read
According to Georgetown University’s Department of Neuroscience, “is the study of how the nervous system develops.” This study, also commonly referred to as “Neural Science,” deals with the structures and functions of the nervous system and brain. There are many modern types of neuroscience, including affective neuroscience, behavioral neuroscience, cognitive neuroscience, and molecular neuroscience. Today, the one we will be discussing is the first one, affective neuroscience, which deals with “how neurons behave in relation to emotions.”
What is the History Behind Music Therapy?
The Idea of Music Therapy is registered in works as old as the writings of Plato and Aristotle, but the profession formally began in the 20th century, after the first and second World Wars. Music Therapy was used to help veterans suffering from trauma due to what they had seen and experienced during the War, and after the Veterans showed an improvement, doctors requested for the Hospital to hire musicians. Music Therapy continued to be a struggle to establish, since there were many failed attempts both in the 19th and early 20th Century. Music Therapy didn’t start taking off until around the 1940s, with the NAMT (National Association for Music Therapy) being finally founded on June 2, 1950 in New York City. It took until the 1980s to fully lay the foundation, such as creating a board and other activities. The AAMT (American Association for Music Therapy) was founded in 1971.
How is Mood Impacted by Music?
This is our leading question for the article, and though it may seem strange for some, music does, in fact, have a relevant impact on mood. A playlist that gradually changes from a connection to negative emotions to positive emotions is also considered a healthy coping way because of this! This happens because music affects neurotransmitters, especially serotonin and dopamine when you listen to music with positive vibes. Dopamine and serotonin together influence and positively impact mood, sleep, concentration, memory, anxiety levels, motivation, and sometimes even pain!
How Does This All Connect Back to the Iso-Principle?
The Iso-principle is a technique that is mainly used in music-therapy, and it is matching music to the patient’s mood, then gradually altering it to make a positive change in the person’s mood. This has been shown to improve heart rate and blood pressure at times, making it a valuable tool to help regulate mood. Another thing that is an important detail to keep in mind is that the same type of music won’t feel the same for everyone, since different people associate different types of music in their own ways. The Iso-principle is essentially the technique behind music-therapy.
What Conditions Can Music Therapy Manage?
Music Therapy is typically used to help treat conditions such as:
Dementia
Brain Injuries
Stroke
Parkinson’s Disease
Cancer
Autism
Mood Disorders
Anxiety
Learning Disabilities
Learning Disabilities
Developmental Disabilities
Pain, both acute and chronic
Substance Use and Addiction Disorders
What are the Benefits of Music Therapy?
Some of the benefits of music therapy include:
Relaxing Effects
Emotion Exploration
Reduction in Anxiety and Depression
Ease Stress
Regulate Mood
Strengthen Communication Skills
Improve Speaking Skills
Improve Social Skills
Strengthen Confidence
Help Create Coping Skills
Develop Problem-Solving Skills
Reduce Perceived Levels of Pain
Improve Physical Coordination and Movement
Improve Quality of Life
How Does Music Impact Our Daily Lives?
Music has shaped societies and cultures for centuries, impacting mood, altering perspectives, and inspiring change. In modern societies, music makes an impact through the sharing of valuable cultural experiences and insight, since you learn a part of another way of life. Music has also evolved into a tool for self-expression and healing, which can often be used to deliver complex or abstract messages you might not be able to put into full sentences.
Interested in a Career in Music Therapy? Here’s How.
Earn a bachelor’s degree in music therapy
Complete an internship
Get certified by the board
Consider a master’s degree
Apply for jobs
Research doctoral programs
Becoming a music therapist will often take 4 years or more. As a music therapist, you’d earn about $70,876 per year, but this may vary depending on your location of residence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, music can give us energy and motivation when we lack it, soothe us when we’re worried, encourage us when we’re weary, and re-inspire us when we feel deflated.
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