This week it’s #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek. One of our primary goals is to support patient and staff mental health with music and entertainment.
How Music Helps Mental Health
Music can significantly benefit mental health in various ways, supported by both scientific research and lived experience. Here’s how:
1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Listening to calming music can lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone), slow heart rate, and promote relaxation.
Music therapy is often used to treat anxiety disorders, helping people regulate emotions and cope with tension.
2. Improves Mood
Music can trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward.
Upbeat or familiar songs can enhance feelings of happiness and motivation, especially in people with depression.
3. Boosts Emotional Expression
Music helps individuals express emotions that might be difficult to articulate with words.
Writing, performing, or listening to music can be a healthy outlet for processing grief, anger, sadness, or joy.
4. Supports Social Connection
Shared musical experiences (concerts, choirs, jamming sessions) foster a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation.
Music can be a tool for building empathy and understanding between people.
5. Improves Sleep
Relaxing music before bed can improve sleep quality by reducing intrusive thoughts and promoting a calm mental state.
6. Enhances Cognitive Function
Music can improve memory, attention, and concentration, which benefits people experiencing mental fog from depression or anxiety.
In dementia care, music often helps patients reconnect with memories and reduce agitation.
7. Encourages Mindfulness
Listening closely to music encourages being present in the moment, a practice aligned with mindfulness and meditation techniques.
Which of these benefits do you find with music?
Lift your Spirits with Torbay Hospital Radio
We broadcast 24/7. Tune into a wide range of music, chat and entertainment to distract you from your woes and pain. Send requests and rejoice hearing your favourite songs.