Lessons in the Power of Music From Barry Manilow
There is a popular song from the mid-1970s by the singer Barry Manilow called “I Write the Songs” (ironically, though he has written many songs, Manilow did not write this particular song). The song hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and garnered the “Song of the Year” Grammy in 1976.
“I Write the Songs” is narrated by…well, by the music itself (“I am music, and I write the songs”). In the chorus and bridge of the song, we hear about the power of music:
I write the songs that make the whole world sing
I write the songs of love and special things
I write the songs that make the young girls cry
I write the songs, I write the songs
Oh, my music makes you dance
And gives you spirit to take a chance
And I wrote some rock ‘n’ roll, so you can move
Music fills your heart, well, that’s a real fine place to start
It’s from me, it’s for you
It’s from you, it’s from me
It’s a worldwide symphony
Now, whether or not this particular song is something you would like to listen to regularly, it does hint at some of the ways in which music can support your mental health. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of making music a regular part of your routine.
The Mental Health Advantages of Music
- Music as a mood booster: Listening to your favorite music is a great way to give your mood a boost when you are feeling down. When you hear (or even sing along with) something you enjoy, it can spark a bit of happiness that can start to turn your mood around.
- Music as depression and anxiety management: We want to be sure to differentiate between the moments of sadness and general blues we all feel from time to time and the various mental health disorders that fall into the category of “depression.” Even with that distinction made, however, it is notable that music therapy—which often involves music that contributes to feelings of well-being—is a recognized approach to addressing the symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders.
- Music as exercise buddy: Good physical health is directly related to good mental health, and that means regular exercise is an important part of any effort to improve your overall well-being. Listening to up-tempo tunes while working out has been shown to boost your motivation and your performance. A great playlist serves as a kind of musical coach to keep you pushing through the workout.
- Music as lullaby: Restful sleep—just like regular exercise—is central to your physical and mental health. But many folks struggle to get the rest their bodies and minds need—often because their minds start to race with worry and regret while they are trying to fall asleep. Taking a cue from childhood and enjoying music as a lullaby can be a good way to slow a speeding mind. Any soft music you find relaxing can do the trick, but increasingly you can find music created specifically to help individuals fall and stay asleep online.
- Music as pain management: Studies suggest that listening to music can be quite helpful as a strategy for lessening pain. This can be particularly important for individuals who suffer from chronic pain or who experience significant pain after surgery. Ongoing pain definitely has a significant impact on a person’s mental health, and music can go some distance toward helping to lessen that pain—and lessening the need for dangerous pain medications that can lead to addiction.
- Music as a hobby: We have been focusing on the benefits of listening to music in this post, but it is also the case that making music can be a wonderful way to support your mental well-being. Maybe it is time to dust off that instrument you played in the high school band or orchestra. Perhaps you would enjoy taking piano lessons. Or maybe there is a local choir you could join. Heck, even singing your favorite songs in the shower can be good for your mental health. Having an engaging hobby that you regularly make time for is a great practice when it comes to your mental health—and music-making is a terrific option.
We Are Here to ‘Tune’ Up Your Mental Health
At Peak View Behavioral Health, we understand that each individual we serve has a unique story—a unique song, if you will—that has led them to seek out help for their mental health. That is why we offer personalized care grounded in evidence-based practices. You can rely on our highly trained, experienced team to treat you with empathy and respect as we work together to improve your mental health—and by extension, your quality of life. Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Peak View Behavioral Health is here to help when you need us. We hope that is music to your ears.
