Music has been and will continue to be a quintessential part of life. Whether we notice or not, tunes are constantly around us, playing in restaurants, in homes and through wired earbuds. For many, music is an escape, a way to process feelings and a source of motivation. But many overlook the sheer power of music and underestimate how much it can impact mental health both positively and negatively.
Surprisingly enough, listening to sad music can be both helpful and harmful to mental health. In some situations, listening to sad music actually provides comfort and “produces psychological benefits such as mood regulation, and empathic feelings, caused, for example, by recollection of and reflection on past events,” according to the National Library of Medicine. Sad music, with its slower tempos and lower pitches, can actually provoke feelings of understanding and emotional reassurance. On the flip side, listening to sad music can also have adverse effects. In some cases, sad music can increase rumination—repeatedly focusing on negative thoughts—especially in teens, according to the Manning Family Children’s Hospital. When a person constantly dwells on their worries and life problems, it can increase the risk of depression, anxiety and the worsening of any already existing conditions. People often resort to sad music with the intention of attaining feelings of support; however, it can instead intensify symptoms that can result in unhealthy and harmful behaviors. It is important to understand that while listening to sad music can certainly validate feelings and offer support, it can also pose threats to mental health if misused. Before shuffling the sad music playlist, always consider whether it’s improving or hurting your mood.
Upbeat music, as opposed to sad music, can be characterized by its strong tempo, positive lyrics, fast pace and energetic mood. Research has found that upbeat and “happy” music actually has astounding effects on the brain which can help drive people out of a bad mood. According to Thalia, one of the biggest ways music affects our brains is through melody and rhythm as they activate different parts of the brain and impact our emotional state. According to Intermountain Health, upbeat music releases dopamine, a naturally occurring happy chemical, into the brain. Lyrics, too, can have a significant effect on brain interpretation and behavior. Songs about being free and rebellious can be perfect for working out, as they often put people into a motivated mindset. The upbeat tempos of songs increase feelings of energy and happiness, making them perfect for moments of adrenaline.
Music is critical to helping us feel emotions and creatively express ourselves. When it comes to mental health, it’s a double-edged sword. Music has the potential to uplift and heal while also having the ability to amplify negative emotions. Striking a balance between what we listen to, when we listen to it and its specific effects, is key to harnessing all of music’s many benefits and enjoying it to the fullest.
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