Music has long been recognized as therapeutic for the soul, but most conversations on the subject tend to focus on its value for listeners rather than musicians. As it turns out, making music may be even more beneficial for music creators – those who sing or play musical instruments specifically. There is growing evidence pointing to a variety of mental health benefits and as any musician will tell you, playing an instrument is incredibly fulfilling and adds more value to life than most people can imagine. For many of us, it’s the greatest source of pleasure and a defining aspect of our identity.
Keep in mind that while playing a musical instrument is great for your mental health and can aid recovery, it is not a substitute for professional mental healthcare, especially if you are dealing with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, or a major psychiatric disorder. So, make it a point to talk to a Mental Health Expert through Online psychiatrist platforms when needed, and keep making music no matter what else is going on in your life.
The Mental Health Benefits of Playing a Musical Instrument
1. The Best Brain Exercise You Can Find
Neurologists often encourage patients to play musical instruments for one simple reason – the activity exercises your brain and helps to keep it healthy as you age. Almost all instruments, from guitars and violins to drums and saxophones, require you to use both hands for completely different actions. It activates gross and fine motor skills for precise finger movements, as well as executive function for decision-making, giving your brain a complete workout. This engages the brain in a unique way, activating both hemispheres simultaneously and promoting neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections.
2. Lowers the Risk of Age-related Cognitive Decline
Almost all of us associate ageing with memory loss and cognitive impairment, although this is by no means inevitable. Studies show that adults who play an instrument regularly have a reduced risk of developing dementia and degenerative brain conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. This is again linked to the fact that musical training engages multiple regions of the brain, which strengthens neural pathways and even creates new ones, helping to delay the onset of dementia and other degenerative conditions.
3. Strengthens Memory Formation
According to research that appeared in the journal Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, people who learn to play musical instruments experience significant boosts in verbal memory within 10 weeks of taking up the practice. Such benefits have been documented across various age groups, with people in their 60s and 70s also experiencing improvements in memory and cognitive function when they start to play musical instruments.
4. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
This is a benefit that should be obvious to anyone who plays a musical instrument – it’s one of the most effective ways to unwind and relax completely. Research shows that the activity can help to lower your heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels, which tend to be elevated with stress and anxiety. Playing an instrument can therefore be used as a coping mechanism and for many people it also helps overcome intense grief and emotional trauma. While all musical instruments offer such mental health benefits, the stress-reduction effects are most notable with wind instruments because of their focus on diaphragmatic breathing.
5. Improves Your Sense of Self Worth and Self Esteem
While your sense of self-worth should not be dependent on your ability to play a musical instrument, learning to play can help overcome problems with lack of confidence and low self-esteem. As you learn to play a musical instrument, it gives you a significant sense of achievement and fulfilment. As you progress in your playing, you also build confidence in your abilities, which translates into other areas of life. Music also offers a creative outlet for self-expression, allowing you to get in touch with your emotions and communicate more effectively. This ultimately strengthens your personal identity and sense of self.
6. Boosts Quality of Life
In addition to the mental health benefits of playing a musical instrument, such as improved stress management, enhanced memory, and faster learning, music can significantly boost your overall quality of life. Numerous studies show that those who learn to play instruments experience higher levels of happiness, stronger social connections, and mental stimulation, all contributing to a better quality of life. Whether played professionally or as a hobby, evidence suggests that playing an instrument fosters emotional resilience and cognitive health, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
