The Psychology Behind Music Affecting Mental Health
- Saideep Bikkineni
- Apr 28
- 2 min read
How does Music help with Mental Health?
As many of you may already know, music is inherently repetitive and rhythmic. These characteristics trigger various chemicals in the brain that influence its function, especially in the neocortex. When engaged by music, the neocortex helps to calm us down and reduce impulsivity in listeners. Many individuals use music as a tool for relaxation and stress relief. Studies have demonstrated that music can lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and alleviate pain and improve sleep quality. Different genres of music can result in various effects: for instance, rock music may uplift your mood, while classical music can help focus on tasks at hand. Listening to music at a tempo of 60 beats per minute has been shown to increase brain efficiency. For optimal benefits, it is recommended to play music softly in the background while engaging in tasks and activities. Music therapy makes an environment that helps heal trauma and build resilience. Music therapy can be found everywhere, from schools all the way to hospitals. Recent studies also prove that involving oneself in musical activities can have more benefits, like self reflection and creating a sense of community. These types of feelings can help someone who is having emotional problems like depression or anxiety.
The relationship between Music and Mental Health:
According to Harvard University, listening to music has a direct impact on the Central Nervous System which affects the autonomic Nervous System, which automatically regulates breathing and heart rate. Music also activates the right side of the brain, including the hippocampus and amygdala, which are involved in processing emotional responses to music through memory. Additionally, the limbic system plays a role in generating feelings of pleasure, motivation, and reward, which is why people often find themselves tapping their feet to the beat of a song.
Many neurologists suggest that the brain is simultaneously processing multiple elements while listening to music, making it a rich and engaging experience. The National Institutions of Health state that the ability to listen and respond to music was an early development in the human evolutionary chain. Furthermore, there is a belief that even before language had meaning, music existed. It is thought that our ancestors used their voices and rhythmic sounds before the invention of musical instruments. They described music as a universal language that communicates and evokes emotions within one's mind. Music controls the arousal levels, which can create a significant positive impact on heart rate levels electrodermal activity, and cortisol.
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