The Health Benefits Of Music Therapy

Health Benefits Continued

A study published in the Journal of Music Therapy discovered when music was used as an intervention tool for children and teenagers with social and developmental behaviors, such as autism, their attention, focus, communication, and body awareness skills all improved, while their levels of anxiety decreased. This form of therapy has not only proven to improve a depressed mood but also reduce one’s heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure. Research has even proven playing music directed at the womb during the third trimester can result in the infant being more responsive to music after birth, while also positively influencing neonatal behavior. These neonatal benefits include an increased weight gain and feeding rates, as well as a reduced heart rate and deeper sleep.

Next, reveal how music therapy specifically helps those dealing with anxiety, depression, and stress.

Reducing Anxiety, Depression, And Stress

An article published in the Southern Medical Journal claimed although music is subjective to individual preferences and tastes, music appears to have a direct physiological effect through the nervous system and can cause immediate emotional and motor responses as well. When instruments are being played, both auditory and tactile stimulation help to produce a state of mental relaxation for the patient, thus easing their symptoms of depression and anxiety. As a result, music is now used as an alternative natural form of therapy for a multitude of diseases, specifically for those with severe physical and cognitive disabilities, as well as for individuals dealing with severe social anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Keep reading to reveal how music can help patients in a hospital setting or care facility.