Music as Therapy: How Music Helps Mental Health

By Kayla Minor

Photo by Kayla Minor

Music has a magical way of lifting our spirits, calming our minds, and making even the toughest days feel a little brighter.

Whether it’s a favorite song playing on the radio, the soothing strum of a guitar, or the energetic beat of a dance track, music has a unique power to influence our emotions. With more people recognizing its impact on mental well-being, music therapy is becoming a popular way to manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.

Science backs up what many of us already know—music makes us feel good! Listening to music triggers the release of dopamine, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical, which helps boost mood and reduce stress. At the same time, calming melodies can lower levels of cortisol, the hormone responsible for feelings of tension and anxiety. That’s why a peaceful playlist can work wonders after a long, stressful day or why an upbeat song can instantly energize and motivate us.

Music therapy takes this natural connection to music a step further, using it in structured ways to help people cope with emotional struggles. Music helps people express their feelings in ways that words sometimes cannot, whether through listening, singing, or playing an instrument. Studies have shown that music can help regulate mood, provide comfort during difficult times, and even improve focus and memory.

Rachel Wood, a licensed social worker, sums it up perfectly: “Music provides a safe and accessible outlet for emotional expression, which can be incredibly therapeutic for those who struggle to put their feelings into words. While it’s not a cure, it can be a crucial tool in a broader healing process.”

Of course, music isn’t a magic fix for everything, and it shouldn’t replace professional therapy when needed. But it can be a helpful addition to other forms of mental health support. Sometimes, a song can act as a little escape, giving us a break from overthinking and offering a moment of peace. Other times, lyrics can feel like they were written just for us, making us feel less alone in whatever we’re going through.

Beyond personal benefits, music also brings people together. Singing in a choir, playing in a band, or even just sharing favorite songs with friends can create a sense of connection and belonging. Music has a way of uniting people, no matter their background or experiences. It reminds us that we’re not alone and that someone, somewhere, has felt the same emotions we do.

At the end of the day, music is one of life’s greatest joys. It has the power to comfort, inspire, and heal in ways we don’t always fully understand. While it may not solve every problem, it can certainly make the journey a little easier—and a lot more enjoyable. So the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, press play on your favorite song and let the music work its