Music & Mental Health
The relationship between music and mental health is profound and multifaceted. Music has the power to evoke emotions, reduce stress, and enhance mood, making it a valuable tool for mental well-being. Listening to music can trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Additionally, engaging in musical activities, such as playing an instrument or singing, can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem. Music therapy, a clinical and evidence-based practice, uses music interventions to achieve individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship, addressing cognitive, emotional, and social needs. Overall, music serves as a powerful medium for emotional expression and mental health support, offering both immediate and long-term benefits.
The following are some useful resources about music and mental health:
- American Psychological Association (APA): Article on “Music’s Power Over Our Brains” discusses how music affects brain health and its potential therapeutic benefits.
- McLean Hospital: Video on “How Music Impacts Our Mental Health” provides insights into the therapeutic effects of music.
- The Healing Power of Music – How Does Music Impact Us? by DW Documentary: This video explores how music affects our brain, emotions, health, and social interactions.
- This Is Your Brain On Music – How Music Benefits The Brain (animated) by Better Than Yesterday: This video explains how music affects the brain in various ways, such as altering mood, enhancing performance, and developing cognitive skills.
- Music Therapy and its Impact on the Brain by Elizabeth Stegemöller at TEDxIowaStateUniversity: This talk discusses the impact of music therapy on the brain, particularly for people with Parkinson’s disease.
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Offers a variety of educational resources, including videos and activities, to promote mental well-being.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Video Resource Library featuring inspirational stories and educational content on mental health.
Recent Posts
Sitting Down with Nina Iorik
Nina Iorik, our Assistant Director of Education and Social Media, is an incredibly talented pianist with great love and respect for classical music. When I first saw her playing a duet in a masterclass for Seattle Chamber Music Society’s Academy, I was stunned by how effortlessly she played – which…
Sitting Down with Kathryn Han
I met Kathryn Han, Vice President & Secretary, this Fall, and immediately noticed how calm and friendly she is. As a ballerina studying at Pacific Northwest Ballet, Kathryn interacts with music on a daily basis. I took lessons with PNB as a child, and a large part of our classes…
Sitting Down with Courtney Tam
I met Courtney Tam a few years back, at the Washington State Music Teachers Association’s honor recital. She blew me away with her performance, with incredible technique and intelligent interpretation! Courtney’s conscientiousness can be observed from her music, from her personality, and from her answers to our questions to our…
