As we continue to study the connection between music and wellness, one aspect of health that continues to jump out in conjunction with music is mental health. Here we specifically want to note the benefits of songwriting for your mental health. For many artists, the birth of their music career was not conceived in vainglory, but in a need for something more profoundly therapeutic.
The world would be a very different – possibly dark – place if there were no songs being written. But songwriting is not only good for satisfying the ears of billions of people who jump on Apple Music and Spotify, as well as other platforms where they can access their favorite songs. And it’s not only good for the music business. Writing songs is also hella beneficial to the songwriters themselves. -Tunedly
It provides a healthy distraction:
While distraction from our problems is not always the best solution, at the same time finding a craft or healthy outlet that boosts the mood and enhances well-being is always a good thing. Songwriting focuses the mind and emotions on something outside of our inner dialogue, steering the mind from dark and consuming thought loops. Songwriting is also a process that can be worked on for a few minutes or several hours. You may even find yourself writing a song in your head while driving, showering or cleaning. In this way, the practice of songwriting takes the brain away from unhealthy, discouraging thoughts and offers it something uplifting, encouraging and creative.
I don’t know how to function without music. When I’m not making it, I’m listening to it. It gives me courage and takes care of my mind. -Billie Eilish
Songwriting is a form of self expression:
Most of us struggle to some degree to express how we really feel in simple sentences to our doctors, partners or best friends. The art of songwriting has its own clever way, via the poetry of the lyrics and the resonance of the notes, are helping us express the message of our pain and joy, often in one or two lines. The art of songwriting provides a haven in which the songwriter can speak their heart and mind freely.
Many people often find it challenging to articulate their emotions into words. Oscar Wilde once said, “Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth.” Humans have relied on the arts as a form of communication and self-expression for thousands of years. Many people take this expression and use it to fuel their passion for painting, sculpting, writing, making music, and more. But art does not always need to result in brilliance and history-making levels of quality. Artistic practice can simply be used as exercises to help treat mental health challenges and disorders, and this is known as “art therapy.” – Jefferson Center
It provides a sense of purpose:
A common dilemma of the human condition is discovering or identifying the individual sense of purpose. A sense of purpose complements good mental health. By songwriting, the human person discovers in themselves an ability to connect and creative for the world beyond them, thus identifying their on sense of purpose in the grand scheme of life.
Even minor notes can elevate your mood:
Any fans of The Cure will tell you, not all sad songs make you feel sad. It is, in fact, presumptuous to conclude they people who listen to The Cure or Nirvana, do so because it makes them sadder or angry. On the contrary, our beings become syncopated with music such that it provides a sense of understanding and relief when we experience darkness, grief, or confusion. Furthermore, writing music and utilizing notes that identify your mood, can serve as a relief and elevation for the heart and the mind.
The listeners enjoy the mere presence of an imaginary person represented by the music who is in the same mood can help to cope with one’s feelings. – Psychology Today
In the world of the mind and emotions, music is inherently a conduit for heightened wellness regardless of genre. Whether you are an experienced recording artist, or an avid listening looking for an outlet, consider songwriting the next time you find yourself in need of a mental or emotion elevation. Music is among the most powerful of influencers with followers far beyond millions.
