Types of Music That Help Improve Mental Health

Music is a universal language that can produce profound emotional and cognitive responses.
The best music for mental health is highly personal, but research and health professionals
highlight several genres that target specific well-being goals, such as relieving stress, boosting
mood, or encouraging catharsis. No one has exactly the same response, but we can offer some
thoughts on what might help most according to a person’s needs.

Music engages a diverse network of brain regions and circuits, including sensory-motor
processing, memory, and emotions. Music-induced brain network oscillations occur in specific
frequencies, and listening to one’s preferred music can grant easier access to these brain
functions. Also, music possesses a remarkable capacity to induce transformative changes in the
brain, fostering neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to change and teach itself), and reshaping
neural networks.

For people in need of stimulation and a mental energy boost, music that encourages dopamine
production can help. High-tempo music triggers the brain’s “feel-good” neurotransmitters,
which can help motivate you or lift you out of a funk. For instance, if an activity (like cleaning
the house or studying) is boring, upbeat music can spark a sense of speeding up. Some
preferred styles are electronic dance music (EDM), pop, and fast-paced video game
soundtracks.

When someone needs to focus, they might find lyrics distracting. Their brains might want to
process the words in the song rather than focus on what they’re doing. For that, instrumental
music or cyclic rhythms can fit the bill. This includes lo-fi beats, ambient sounds, classical music,
or peaceful video game background music. These genres provide a steady, rhythmic sound that
keeps the brain engaged without overwhelming it.

Many people don’t get the stimulation they need when listening to low-key melodies or pop.
They crave passionate, layered, complex tunes with hard edges, such as genres like progressive
rock, heavy metal, and intricate hip-hop. These kinds of music provide enough background
activity to quiet a restless mind yet also produce a sense of power. Also, music with an element
of aggression can soothe and channel feelings like anger and frustration.

For help with a low mood, resonant, melancholic music and lyrics can help you to unpack
difficult feelings, encouraging an emotional release. On the other hand, you can try
empowering anthems with strong, resilient themes to build self-esteem.

There are all sorts of apps and platforms to create your own mood playlists to have them ready
whenever you want them. Try it as a form of self-care and a powerful way to express yourself.
It’s also fun to bond with people over music by sharing and contributing.

For more tips on simple ways to improve your mood, write to us on our contact page or call us
at (585) 442-6960.