Research indicates that listening to classical music could alleviate symptoms of depression and boost mood

A recent study published in the journal Cell Reports uncovers the potential benefits of classical music on our wellbeing. The study, although small with just 23 participants, aimed to investigate non-pharmacological treatments for depression. It focused on the use of music following advancements in neuroscientific studies that explore music-evoked emotions.

The researchers analysed the influence of listening to music on the brain's reward circuitry – the part of the brain that controls the ability to feel pleasure – via the auditory cortex, which is responsible for processing sound. The outcomes found that listening to music is a “promising and accessible” intervention for alleviating depression symptoms, although this is largely down to individual enjoyment. 

4 benefits of classical music on wellness

  • Relieves stress. Listening to classical music can lower the stress hormone cortisol and create a calming effect. 
  • Better sleep. Classical music doesn’t contain distracting lyrics, and with around 60 beats per minute, it’s ideal for helping us to sleep more soundly. 
  • Reduces blood pressure. It is suggested that classic music can help lower blood pressure, as the vagus nerve is stimulated by the gentle sounds, triggering the body to relax. 
  • Improved cognition. You may have heard of the ‘Mozart effect’ – this is the idea that listening to classical music can temporarily improve memory. More research is needed to determine its efficacy, but several studies suggest it could help retain information in the short term.

Although more research is needed into the effects of classical music on our wellbeing, numerous suggestions point to its effectiveness, particularly when used alongside other medical or psychological interventions. In an article from the BBC Music Magazine, Professor James Goodwin draws on the role of music in supporting the brain. He notes that music is unique in that it can simultaneously engage more areas of the brain than any other activities of daily life, stimulating the brain and supporting mental health. 

The influence of music on our wellbeing is largely determined by its tempo and key. For example, fast-tempo music typically evokes positive emotions, whilst slow tempos can lower arousal levels and induce feelings of sadness. With this in mind, music can hold therapeutic value in wellbeing, particularly when it comes to reducing stress and boosting mood. 

What’s the role of music therapy in mental health support? 

Commenting on the study in Medical News Today, psychotherapist Noah Kass highlights that the true effectiveness of music in reducing symptoms of depression is generally down to the preferences of the individual. This is where music can be really useful in therapy, as the therapist draws on what can help motivate their client to achieve lasting change. 

As this latest research suggests, music really does have the power to move us. Many people use music to express themselves where words fail. This is the basis of music therapy. Music therapy involves a therapist working with a client to help them express themselves using the medium of music. It’s especially beneficial for people who are more creative and struggle to express their feelings with words and, what’s more, you don’t need to have experience in playing instruments to try it. 

The therapeutic use of music may still need to be explored further but, especially when used alongside other treatments, it can be a wonderful management tool for mental health concerns like anxiety, stress and depression. If you might like to work with a music therapist, you can find those regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council on Counselling Directory.