Music and Mood

Have you ever had a song that played in your head that was reminiscent of good times? The use of music is not a new phenomena and ancient civilizations have utilized music in rituals, social gatherings, and other cultural events. Music interventions may be beneficial to mental health. Quinci et al. (2022) explored changes in the auditory and reward center in the brain after exposure to a music based intervention. There was preliminary evidence that exposure to a music based intervention yielded changes in brain connectivity in cognitively unimpaired adults. Having a music playlist can be beneficial in emotion regulation. Identifying songs or tunes that help with managing or regulating emotions can be an important tool in your mental health toolbox. Music is a great way of processing experiences and relating to others. Here are some ways of getting started on identifying songs to include on your playlist.

-Subscribe to a music app such as Spotify. This makes having access to great music easy with minimal cost. -Write your own songs. Creating your own lyrics is a good way of processing your emotional state. -Identify songs that speak to you based on your emotional state. What is your happy song? Which tune provides you with motivation? -Go to a concert in the park or other event. You may expand your social circle by going to events where music is on the main stage. -Join a choir or group. Singing with others is a great way of socializing and connecting with others. -Consider music therapy. Music therapy is another type of therapy that utilizes music as a primary modality in processing emotion and emotion regulation. -Listen to music daily. Immerse yourself in the music and allow yourself to be present in the moment.

Quinci, M.A., Belden, A., Goutama, V. et al. Longitudinal changes in auditory and reward systems following receptive music-based intervention in older adults. Sci Rep 12, 11517 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-15687-5 Resources https://www.percussionplay.com/music-as-medicine-ptsd-music-therapy/

Video Source: ICONIQ Psychology

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