Music and Our Brains

by Jenna Shin

When you’re at work, driving, studying, with friends, or even getting ready for a good night’s rest, you may find yourself playing a few of your favorite tunes on the speaker. 

With the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals fought difficult times with isolation and a change in their everyday routines. Through this period of isolation, music has become a significant aspect in healing those who were suffering from stress and concern. We may often find ourselves turning on songs and feeling just a little better than before. But what really happens to our brains when we hear music?

It is important to understand the process in which our brains absorb music and how it changes our emotions. Psychiatry colleague Samantha Sharma, MD, states that the process begins when “sound waves [enter] the ear, striking the eardrum, and [cause] vibrations that are converted into electric signals. These signals travel by sensory nerves to the brainstem, the brain’s message relay station for auditory information. Then they disperse to activate auditory (hearing) cortices and many other parts of the brain” (neuro.hms.harvard.edu).
As these signals are activated, the brain is activated based on the type of song it absorbs and can correlate certain songs with events in their lifetime. For example, one may remember a song that their mother always used to sing when they were a child, and feel at ease when it plays. These correlations cause us to feel sensations and relive memories due to the association of the music and the mind. 

In addition to relating music with events in our life, research has shown that music can assist mental health struggles in various aspects and features. 
It can be difficult expressing our inner thoughts and emotions, especially when those around us do not expect it. Molly Warren, MM, states that musical lyrics allowed an individual to express their emotions and experiences in a more therapeutic method rather than opening up to others directly. This option allows those battling mental health obstacles to feel less of a burden while opening up about their thoughts and hardships. Another example of the bond between music and mental illness is evident in those with Alzheimer’s disease, as they are easily able to recognize songs like the alphabet. This is possible because familiar songs like these are engraved into our memory since childhood, meaning it is difficult for one to forget them even with mental struggles.

It’s fascinating to learn about the functions of our brains and how simple melodies can change our mood so fast. So the next time you find yourself stressed in a hectic schedule, remind yourself to turn on your favorite playlist and relax for a moment.

Sources:
neuro.hms.harvard.edu