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Music therapy is the evidence-based use of music in a clinical setting to accomplish therapeutic goals.

Neurological and social consequences of a brain injury can be addressed with music therapy.

It is important to keep in mind cultural influences and potential harm when exercising music therapy.

By Prav Prathapan, Encephalitis International

The use of music for healing has been understood since time immemorial. By 5000 BC, music was already used for healing by Egyptian priest-physicians.1 In the ancient West, Apollo was the Greek god of both music and medicine, while his son Aesculapius was said to cure diseases of the mind by using song and music.

Fast forward to today, and music is used all around the world to address recovery from an acquired brain injury (ABI), irrespective of its causes—an inflammation (encephalitis), trauma, or other medical events (stroke, meningitis). "Music therapy," as it is formally known, is the evidence-based practice that uses music to work on functional goals. It is provided by music therapists who are usually trained musicians themselves and have completed an accredited music therapy programme.

There are two basic types of music therapy: receptive and active (also known as expressive). The former guides patients in listening or responding to music, and the latter engages patients in the act of making music. Listening to music can improve heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure.

Benefits for people recovering from a brain injury

“Caring for someone with a brain injury is far from easy. But the simple things in life—music, nature, food, laughter, family and friends—can bring solace and happiness to us........

© Psychology Today