Both, it appears, have been linked in research findings with increased happiness and decreased anxiety.
I can vouch for both but I have two important questions:
What about miserable music? I personally like Leonard Cohen but some have described his music as depressing. Is all music associated with wellbeing?
Secondly, what impact will the growing body of research into things like music, dance, meditation or massage have on personalisation and the choices people make in terms of spending their individual budgets and the advice they are given from professionals?
(Photo credit: mzacha from morguefile.com)
I can vouch for both but I have two important questions:
What about miserable music? I personally like Leonard Cohen but some have described his music as depressing. Is all music associated with wellbeing?
Secondly, what impact will the growing body of research into things like music, dance, meditation or massage have on personalisation and the choices people make in terms of spending their individual budgets and the advice they are given from professionals?
(Photo credit: mzacha from morguefile.com)
I agree. I'm a very musical person and find my mood lifts after I've been singing or playing piano.
However, when I had depression I noticed that I hardly ever sang, when before I was unwell I used to sing everyday. As is well known depression can rob us of the things we used to enjoy. So yes, although I think music is therapeutic, it can be just as difficult to seek out as other therapies.
I also agree that different type of music can have different effects. I remember when I was first depressed as a teenager, all I did was listen to miserable and sad songs that I was convinced reflected my own experiences. But there was no hope in those songs, so I too had no hope. I listen to much "happier" music now but still like my sad songs, but I know when my mood is dipping that I need to avoid the sad songs as they only make things worse.
Hi Gaby, good points. Mental health is such a two-way process
i agree. Music and Dance are an innate part of our human make-up, instilled into us through years of evolution and learning. its primary function bringing us together as a species despite any communication barriers, music and dance are truly global. I personally need a music ' fix' daily, it does'nt judge, attack, let you down or analyse who you are. The music does'nt need you, you need it - so you go and seek it, and when you 'discover' your music (mines dubstep at the moment) it grips you and takes over, learning to play an instrument is pretty therapuetic too, and if you can afford it then lessons are a good idea, but all in all music is like art and aftershave, very personal and if it pushes your buttons, then keep it real !!. peace.
Cheers James
In the past there were music therapists that used to work with patients with psychiatric illnesses.
What has happened to them?
I attend and am involved with promoting a scheme for people with mental health problems called Creative Remedies. We have a range of groups including a performing arts group which focuses on singing and dancing. People find it really helpful in getting them out of the house, increasing confidence and trying new things. Many members go on to do these things outside of the scheme, joining choirs or art classes.
You can find out more at www.creativeremedies.org