Music's calming effects helpful during pandemic

Posted February 2021

By Eva Wu

Staff Reporter

Music affects someone more than you think.

Quarantine has been mentally draining for a majority of individuals, bringing several negative effects. According to the KFF, nearly about 4 in 10 U.S. adults have announced symptoms of, “anxiety or depressive disorder” during the pandemic. Reportingly, adults described specific impacts on their health, such as difficulty in sleeping or eating, increases in alcohol consumption or substance use, and worsening chronic conditions.” More information is on www.kff.org.

For others, it may be rough to find light at the end of the tunnel. It feels like the situations they have will permanently remain with the overbearing weight of hopelessness. But perhaps even something so miniscule can lighten the mood or chase away the bleakness. Perhaps listening to some music may help, whether the impact is big or small as a result.

A 2013 study made participants listen to calming music, the sound of rippling water, and some listened to nothing. Results displayed that music affected the “human stress response.” Those who listened to music recovered more swiftly, “following a stressor.” Another study showed that music can boost mood, a trail where participants were instructed to listen to positive music for two weeks. Those who intentionally listened to the music to improve their moods reported to have felt happier after two weeks. For more information and details, visit www.verywellmind.com.

The world may seem more desolate during these uncertain times. Your mind running, scrambling with thoughts. So, why not chase away those thoughts? Why not make yourself feel a little better? Even if it’s for a little bit? Listen to your favorite song or even try a new genre of music. Perhaps it will boost your mood.

From my personal experience, music has always soothed me during stressful times. Some I could relate deeply with its lyrics, giving me a sense of connection. And a sense that I wasn’t alone. Somehow it blocks me from all outside noises and takes me into a personal bubble, away from everything, everything from mental thoughts to friends and family. I could say that music has played a significant factor in helping me cope during the pandemic. Even if there wasn’t anyone there to support me, I would turn to music to relieve my negative thoughts. And most of the time, it works.

Although, it may be different for others. Music may not always be an effective coping mechanism or something that improves the mood. And that’s okay. There are certainly many other methods to improve mental health during this time. For example, talking about your feelings with someone you trust. Even exercising or doing hobbies you adore may help.

Music has been a part of our lives for years and is said to enhance our state of mind. These current times have impacted us greatly and gradually the days get more despairing. A break doesn’t hurt, clearing your mind doesn’t hurt, none of that hurts. There’s only so much a person can handle because we aren’t superhuman. We are just regular humans.