In recent years, the mental health and music studies have continued to proliferate to better understand the effect of melody on our mood. Have you ever wondered why some songs make you happy, while others leave you feeling deeply sad? This is because music has the ability to directly influence our emotions.
An intimate relationship between music and our emotions
Music has long been used by human beings as a means of communication and expression of emotions. Experts agree that this predominant presence at the heart of our history finds a particular resonance
The neurological links between sounds, thoughts and feelings
Several studies have shown that music stimulates different areas of the brain, particularly those involved in emotion regulation. Thus, some research has shown that listening to happy and catchy songs promotes the production of dopamine, a molecule involved in the feeling of pleasure and well-being. Conversely, playing sad music can accentuate negative emotions or nostalgia.
The role of tempo, intensity and tone
Several elements specific to each piece of music, such as rhythm, intensity and tone, affect our emotional reaction to it. Thus, a slow tempo with low or melancholic notes can evoke a feeling of sadness, while a lively rhythm with high notes played loudly can make us happy and energized. As a result, these musical components are regularly used by composers to arouse, amplify or enrich certain sensations in their listeners.
Music and mental health: tangible results
Beyond scientific studies, some researchers have looked into the relationships between pathologies of the Mental Health and practicing or listening to music. The results, although varied, highlight a number of tangible benefits.
Reduce stress and anxiety with the calming effects of music
Numerous studies have shown that listening to calming music – particularly classical and relaxation styles – can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. This reduction in nervous tension is also accompanied by an improvement in the quality of sleep and a reduction in chronic pain in certain people.
Develop your emotional skills
Creating music in groups or individually can give individuals a better understanding of their own and others’ emotions. This familiarization with the subtle language of feelings thus promotes emotional intelligence, interpersonal communication as well as resilience in the face of everyday difficulties.
Support the treatment of specific mental illnesses
However, results vary depending on each person and the disorders they suffer from. In some cases, such as autism, music can act as an extremely beneficial therapy tool – reducing anxiety, facilitating social learning and helping to stimulate motor skills. For other pathologies (depression, bipolar disorders), the contribution of music is more mixed, thus emphasizing the need to choose the pieces and situations carefully according to each person.
Practical everyday applications
To take full advantage of the virtues of music on our mental health, several tips can be followed:
- Take “musical breaks”: whatever your favorite genre, it is advisable to favor moments when you can fully enjoy your favorite titles, without external stimulation (television, conversations). This total immersion allows your mind to escape and your emotions to take flight.
- Listen according to your state of mind: depending on your current mood, don’t hesitate to adapt your playlist to the emotions you want to experience. So, if you are having a particularly stressful day, choose calm and soothing songs. Conversely, if you feel a lack of energy or motivation, opt for more rhythmic and catchy songs.
- Playing a musical instrument: learning to play an instrument offers a wonderful means of personal expression and also allows you to develop your active listening skills. The virtues of this practice are multiple and affect memory, concentration and mnemonic skills.
It should be remembered that despite all its beneficial effects, music should be used wisely and cannot replace appropriate medical monitoring in the event of serious mental health problems. Do not hesitate to consult a professional if you think you are facing such problems.
