Music can positively affect students with their mental health, according to a study done in 2016 by the Canadian Center of Science and Education. Music is one of the important elements in increasing the ability to express oneself, reduce anxiety, treat physiological disorders, manage time effectively, learn coping strategies, and improve the quality of life. The study showed that listening to music can help students study, and distract them from any outside or internal distractions in their life. Given that the average kid listens to music for 2.5 hours every day, and more than half of young adults (ages 18 to 29) said they stream music daily (compared to 24% of all adults), music can be very beneficial for people and students. 

Many people claim music makes them feel happier and relieves their stress. According to a study done by Stanford University, a small but growing body of scientific evidence suggests that music and other rhythmic stimuli can alter mental states in predictable ways and even heal damaged brains.” Music can lower heart rate, and make a person feel less anxious. “Music does help me focus because I have ADHD so it stimulates me so I can do something else too if I am playing something chill in the background,” said sophomore Jasper Bruggink. He claimed that listening to music that amplified his mood helped him better prepare for school. Listening to soothing music with a slow tempo and soft melodies can activate the body’s relaxation response, helping to alleviate anxiety symptoms. 

Music increased productivity and focus. It can mute out noise and make a space that is good for working or learning. “I distract myself with music instead of my surroundings, but since hearing is being blocked and not my vision, I can still focus on my work,” said junior Asher Lynds. He listened to music from the beginning to the end of the day every day at school and claimed it helped him focus throughout the day.

There is no denying the strong link between music and mental health. Music has the power to inspire, uplift, and heal. It gives them a place to express themselves and can be therapeutic at trying times like school.