Music and PTSD
Music Therapy as Treatment for PTSD
Music therapy as treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a simple process. 'Guided Imagery and Music' (GIM) is the use of special classical music to invoke emotional and inner imagery. PTSD patients are given 16 sessions. In these sessions, PTSD patients are asked to listen to their specialized music, individually, for one hour. If desired, patients are able to use GIM on their own time, outside their sessions. They are able to sit up on a chair, open or close their eyes, decide if they want verbal language in their music and they are able to choose if they'd like music from their culture of origin.(Beck, et al., 2017)
How GIM Helps With PTSD
GIM helps patients dealing with PTSD in a variety of ways. Neurological studies prove that listening to music has an essential function on the brain. The motor, emotional and prefrontal parts of the brain are all influenced by the use of music. This is important because these parts of the brain are responsible for respiratory rhythm, heartbeat rhythm and arousal, factors that are all very important to an individuals health. GIM therapy was shown to improve these autonomic functions of the body (Beck, et al., 2017). Traumatized refugees and traumatized veterans both received GIM therapy and reported that their sleeping patterns and quality improved. Another study showed that music therapy, in comparison to art classes, decreased depression and hopelessness for children and adolescent PTSD patients. In another study, 9 children with PTSD reacted better to four sessions of songwriting compared to games. Their PTSD symptoms were very much reduced.
Why You Should Listen to Music If You Are Dealing with PTSD
Compared to other treatments, using music as treatment for PTSD can be an easier option. According to the American Psychology Association, other treatments for PTSD include medication and different types of therapies such as EMDR therapy, CBT therapy and CPT therapy. These treatments can be costly and require another person to engage with. Music therapy for PTSD can be practiced by oneself and is cost efficient. Also, there are possibilities of having side effects when taking medications. With music therapy, there is a lower of chance of experiencing side effects. Music therapy can be used on its own or with other treatments if neccesary. It is a safe and effective treatment that has many healing benefits.