The role of music therapy in the management of anxiety and depression with people suffering from life threatening illnesses

Music, by its very nature speaks to the emotions. Anxiety and depression are negative emotional states that frequently occur as a result of life threatening illnesses. These emotional states can have far reaching social, physical and psychological consequences. Underlying anxiety is the fear of further suffering, dying alone or being abandoned. Underlying depression is anger turned towards self, or at God who may be viewed as harsh and punitive, anger at the unfairness of the situation amongst many. Depression can be a result of unresolved anxiety.

Negative emotional states can complicate already existing physical symptoms, increasing the suffering. Family relationships can be torn apart as a result of angry words and behaviour and the sufferer's social network may collapse.

This paper will demonstrate how music can play an important role in helping to relieve physical and social problems, bringing the threads of human ties back together again. There are four ways music can help with anxiety and depression. These are:

1. The live rendition of classical or modern music played to an individual or as part of a group. Case histories will illustrate the main points.
2. Meaningful and well remembered songs can validate the emotional state and honour family and social relationships. Often, the words of songs gives the message more clearly than the spoken word.
3. Demonstrations will be shown as to how music and art work can help to externalise the negative emotions leading to emotional healing.
4. Music and relaxation will demonstrate how perceptions can be changed, easing emotional pain and bringing relief to physical symptoms.