CALMING SYMPHONY: UNDERSTANDING HOW MUSIC ALLEVIATES ANXIETY

Abstract

Anxiety is a subjective feeling of unease, discomfort, apprehension or fearful concern accompanied by a host of autonomic and somatic manifestations (Shri, 2010). Even though there are effective treatments like psychotherapy and medications, they do not address the complexities of anxiety of everyone. This book chapter draws on prior research done in the area of music psychology which states that music is an impactful way to reduce anxiety (Elliott et al., 2011). This chapter aims to examine how music assists in relieving anxiety. In order to understand the ways to relieve or reduce anxiety, this chapter will also discuss causes and effects of anxiety. According to Shri (2010) anxiety is caused due to three primary factors. They are biological causes, psychological causes and social causes. In addition to this, there are various neurobiological effects that include modulating the autonomic nervous system and reducing stress hormones like cortisol while promoting serotonin release. This chapter aims to explore how music influences brain activity. Additionally, this book chapter also investigates the type of music that can be used to ease anxiety. However, there are also some challenges and risks that are there with the use of music in addressing anxiety among individuals. This book chapter analyses and examines these challenges and limitations along with addressing these issues and help in bringing forth the use of music to alleviate anxiety and other related psychological issues like stress and depression.