The Benefits of Playing an Instrument For Mental Health

July 28, 2024

Playing an instrument can be a fun way to spend time and learning something new can be incredibly beneficial in many ways. When someone plays an instrument and has fun with it, they may be able to see a number of mental health benefits. Some of the benefits they can see include the following. 

Provides Stress Relief

Stress is something that everyone has to deal with and there are numerous ways to help combat it, including playing an instrument. While practicing, it’s possible to relax and just enjoy playing a Suhr guitar or other instrument, helping the stress to melt away. It’s the perfect way to relax at the end of a long work day or to get away from everything mentally for a little bit and enjoy the music for a little while. 

Helps With Improving Concentration

Playing an instrument requires taking time to practice and learn. It’s not something that can be done overnight, even if a person does start to pick up on it quickly. When a person does practice regularly and starts to learn how to play, they may notice that their concentration has improved overall. Since it is required to concentrate on the instrument while playing, this can help the person improve their concentration in everything else, too. 

Can Provide Social Benefits

Playing an instrument is often something that’s done socially. A person might play in front of others if they enjoy performing, might play in a band with their friends, or might just enjoy playing while others are listening in an informal setting so everyone can enjoy the music. Playing socially doesn’t mean playing as a professional, but it is still good to consider the social benefits that playing an instrument can provide. 

Helps With Emotional Regulation

Emotional regulation can be improved by learning to play an instrument. Learning to play provides the person with the chance to relax and practice the instrument, even if they’re stressed or worried over something. The music can be incredibly calming as they play, which can help with regulating emotions, too. Those who are learning to play an instrument may start to see that they are better at regulating their emotions even when they aren’t playing as they continue to practice and enjoy learning the instrument. 

Can Help Combat Depression

Playing an instrument can give a person the chance to get away from everything and just focus on what they’re doing. This can help with a variety of mental health issues like depression, as they are able to escape for a little bit and enjoy listening to the music they’re playing or focus on what they’re learning. Along with helping with depression, it’s also possible that playing an instrument can help with anxiety. Those who suffer from mental health issues regularly may find it beneficial to learn how to play an instrument and to continue practicing it daily. 

If you’re thinking about learning to play an instrument, it is a good idea to learn about the many ways it can be beneficial. Take the time to pick out the right instrument and learn how to play it. While it will take a lot of practice to get good at playing an instrument, you can start to see these and other benefits almost immediately. 

About the Author Kyrie Mattos

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