Does music therapy for depression and anxiety help?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 20-year-old brother has been struggling with depression and anxiety, and his therapist suggested music therapy as part of his treatment plan. I am curious about how music therapy specifically helps individuals with mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Could you elaborate on the science or mechanisms behind how music therapy can positively impact mental health?

Are there particular genres, instruments, or techniques that have shown more effectiveness in helping individuals with similar mental health challenges? Additionally, how can I support my brother in engaging with music therapy effectively at home or in his daily routine to complement his formal sessions? I want to ensure he gets the most out of this therapy and finds some relief from his struggles. Any guidance or further information would be immensely helpful.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your situation and concern about your brother.

Your brother may have major depressive disorder. Music therapy is an old concept for dealing with mental health. Music therapy helps to deal with depression and alleviate anxiety. Music helps to increase the secretion of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which helps to reduce depression. Classical Indian music helps to deal with it. Many other activities also do the same thing and help to deal with anxiety as well as depression. I also suggest that your brother follow the lifestyle changes mentioned below for help:

He should do exercises daily for 30 to 45 minutes, such as going for a walk. It will uplift his mood.
He should do meditation for 20 minutes daily, just sit in one place in a comfortable position, and try to concentrate on his normal breathing. Do not stop or force him to stop his thoughts; just let it be. It will relax and reduce anxiety.
He should eat healthy, home-cooked foods and avoid junk foods.
He must drink enough water.
He should spend quality time with friends and family daily.
He should spend time on creative hobbies like reading good books, writing journals, painting, drawing, and learning new skills or language or musical instruments.
He should get seven to eight hours of sleep daily.
He must avoid tobacco, alcohol, or any substance abuse.
Give him a reason to live his life; do not just spend it.
Be bold and confident.

If your brother still has symptoms that persist after following the advice for four to six weeks, then he needs to start medications for a short duration. I hope this has helped you. Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.