Listening to music for stress management is the intentional use of music to achieve a feeling of relaxation. While there are many healthy ways to deal with the effects of stress, music listening can be a practical strategy, especially since it can lower cortisol levels.
The Managing Stress With Music Handout offers guidance on using music effectively during times of stress. It presents the MUSIC acronym for clients to easily remember key strategies, such as making a playlist and unwinding with instruments. The handout also gives extra tips to enjoy the activity depending on the client’s preference.
Besides reducing stress levels, kids and teens may turn to music as a proactive strategy for maintaining resilience and emotional regulation. After reading the handout, parents and caring adults may offer support by setting up a dedicated space where their child can take a break with the help of music.
For more stress relief information, check out our 39-page Stress Management Handouts Bundle, which includes all of the top stress management resources from our store.
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References:
- Baltazar, M., Västfjäll, D., Asutay, E., Koppel, L., & Saarikallio, S. (2019). Is it me or the music? Stress reduction and the role of regulation strategies and music. Music & Science, 2, 205920431984416. https://doi.org/10.1177/2059204319844161
- Getz, L. M., Marks, S. E., & Roy, M. M. (2012). The influence of stress, optimism, and music training on music uses and preferences. Psychology of Music, 42(1), 71–85. https://doi.org/10.1177/0305735612456727
- Linnemann, A., Ditzen, B., Strahler, J., Doerr, J. M., & Nater, U. M. (2015). Music listening as a means of stress reduction in daily life. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 60, 82–90. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psyneuen.2015.06.008
