CANTIKA.COM, Jakarta - In the face of life's pressures and ongoing stress, finding ways to maintain mental well-being becomes increasingly vital. One method gaining attention recently is music therapy. But, does music therapy truly help alleviate symptoms of depression?
Music therapy is a therapeutic approach that utilizes music to improve mental, emotional, and even physical health. Activities may include listening to music, creating music, writing lyrics, or engaging in discussions about music with a professional music therapist.
You don't have to be skilled at playing musical instruments. What matters is being open to experiencing and expressing yourself through the power of music.
Scientific Evidence: Music Therapy Can Alleviate Depression
A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Affective Disorders in 2016 revealed that music therapy is effective in reducing symptoms of depression.
The study involved 19 different research trials and concluded that patients who participated in music therapy showed a notable decrease in depression levels compared to those who only received conventional treatments, such as psychotherapy or medication.
Often combined with other methods, music therapy has been shown to enhance the overall effect, particularly in boosting mood and reducing anxiety.
Why Does Music Help Ease Depression Symptoms?
There are several reasons why music can be a powerful remedy for the soul:
1. Stimulates Happy Hormones
Music has the ability to trigger the release of dopamine and serotonin, two key hormones responsible for feelings of pleasure and calm. It's no surprise that we feel uplifted simply by listening to our favorite songs, especially when the lyrics resonate with our emotions.
2. Reduces Stress
Music has been proven to lower cortisol levels, the hormone that appears when we are stressed. Calming music, such as classical compositions, ambient sounds, or lo-fi beats, can help relax the nervous system, slow your heart rate, and create a sense of calm. This makes music a natural and accessible way to manage stress on a daily basis.
3. Facilitates Emotional Expression
Sometimes, it's really hard for us to express how we feel. Music provides an alternative outlet for expressing complex emotions that may be hard to verbalize.
Whether it’s through singing, writing lyrics, composing melodies, or simply immersing yourself in a song, music can become a safe space for emotional release. This kind of self-expression is vital in the healing journey and can help people process and cope with internal struggles.
4. Enhances Social Connection
Music therapy is often conducted in groups, indirectly making us feel more connected with others. Participating in group music sessions, singing together, or even just discussing songs and lyrics with others can make individuals feel heard, seen, and supported.
This collective experience can reduce feelings of loneliness and help build a sense of community; something many people need when navigating emotional difficulties.
Is Music Therapy Suitable for Anyone?
Music therapy is suitable for all ages, from children, adolescents, adults, to the elderly. But of course, the results can vary depending on each individual's mental condition and the type of music used. That's why it's really important to consult with a certified music therapist or psychologist before starting this therapy.
It's important to note that music therapy is not a substitute for medication or psychotherapy prescribed by a doctor.
However, as part of holistic care, this therapy can be a very effective companion. In fact, some hospitals and mental health clinics in Indonesia have started incorporating music therapy into patient recovery programs.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, music therapy could be a worthwhile option. With minimal side effects, it’s an enjoyable and personal path to healing.
Disclaimer. If you or someone you know is experiencing depression or other mental health conditions that lead to suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the nearest health institution and/or relevant authorities. The International Association for Suicide Prevention offers an exhaustive list of global helplines to assist you in times of crisis at https://www.iasp.info/crisis-centres-helplines/.
If you’re in Indonesia, you can call Pulih Foundation at (021) 78842580, the Health Ministry's Mental Health hotline at (021) 500454, and the Jangan Bunuh Diri NGO hotline at (021) 9696 9293 for mental crisis assistance and/or suicide prevention measures. Into the Light Indonesia also has information about mental health and suicide prevention, as well as who to contact at https://www.intothelightid.org/tentang-bunuh-diri/hotline-dan-konseling/
MEDICAL NEWS TODAY | NIH | NHS
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