Music may be more than just entertainment – it could be a powerful tool for mental wellbeing. That’s according to research from Julian Schaap, a cultural sociologist at Erasmus University Rotterdam, who is investigating the complex relationship between music and our emotional states. Understanding this connection is increasingly critical as mental health challenges, particularly among young people, continue to rise.
How Music Impacts Our Mood
Many people intuitively recognize music’s ability to motivate, energize, or calm. But, Schaap notes, we often underestimate the profound effect music can have on our mental health. “If we look at the deterioration of mental health among young people, You’ll see various problems at play. Some young people struggle with sadness, loneliness, and social isolation, or questions about meaning in life,” he explained. “Music can be a resource in addressing these different mental struggles.”
Music as Self-Care
Schaap’s research suggests that individuals can proactively use music to regulate their moods. “I research what people do with music, and what music does to people,” he said. “Music can be used ‘on prescription’ to regulate moods. If people develop a deep feeling for the music they love, they are better able to find it at important moments.” What we have is reflected in the popularity of curated playlists designed for specific moods and activities, offered by many music streaming services.
The Role of Early Musical Exposure
The impact of music isn’t limited to simply choosing a song to match your current feelings. Schaap believes that musical education from a young age can play a crucial role in developing a stronger connection to music. “It’s not about what is good or bad music, but about developing your own preferences and strengthening your connection with music,” he said.
Navigating Emotional Responses to Music
The way individuals respond to music varies. While some find solace in listening to sad songs when feeling down, others may find it counterproductive. Schaap’s research indicates that the effect often depends on the nature of the underlying emotional state. For those experiencing “just sadness,” such as heartbreak, music can be therapeutic, allowing individuals to process and release emotions. Although, for those struggling with deeper issues related to self-worth, sad music may reinforce negative feelings. He shared that some respondents reported experiencing prolonged depressive feelings after listening to certain music for months.
Recognition and Healing Through Music
The ability to relate to lyrics can also be a powerful factor in music’s impact on mood. “If you recognize yourself in the lyrics told by the artist, that can reduce feelings of loneliness,” Schaap noted.
Music and Social Connection
Beyond its personal benefits, music can also serve as a social connector. Schaap observed that many young people wear headphones, but this doesn’t necessarily mean they are isolating themselves. “Often, it’s thought that these young people are only focused on themselves. Meanwhile, connections are being made with people who are listening to the same music.” These shared musical experiences can extend to attending festivals or concerts, fostering a sense of community and belonging. “People perceive part of a whole. You see that at large concerts, with contact via social media beforehand, certain rituals developing, and people meeting while waiting in line.”
A Mental Toolkit
Schaap envisions music as a “mental toolkit” that individuals can utilize to manage their emotions. “By consciously thinking about what music suits you and what it does to you, you can use music to deal with emotions.” He believes that harnessing the power of music could potentially alleviate some of the burden on mental healthcare systems. “How can we relieve the pressure on healthcare by making the music and culture sector more ‘caring’?” he asked. Utilizing music to reduce feelings of loneliness and foster connection could lead to fewer people needing to seek professional help, particularly for mild symptoms that, if left unaddressed, could escalate into more serious conditions. By understanding how to leverage music, individuals may find an outlet in something they already use daily.
