Does Sad Music Really Make You Feel Good?

Have you ever found solace in melancholic melodies or sentimental songs?

Many people turn to sad music during difficult times, claiming it helps them feel better. But does sad music really have the power to uplift our spirits?

Music deeply affects our emotions and can evoke a wide range of feelings. Upbeat songs often bring us joy and energy, while sad music has a unique way of connecting with our innermost emotions. The idea of finding comfort in sadness may seem contradictory, but many people believe in the therapeutic effects of listening to melancholic songs.

Music and Feeling Good

New research confirms that music has healing properties and suggests a future where music could be prescribed to enhance focus, promote happiness, induce relaxation, and alleviate sadness.

Studies by the British Academy of Sound Therapy (BAST) have identified standardized dosages of music and specified durations necessary for therapeutic benefits to take effect.

Recent psychological findings highlight music’s positive impact on health, prompting researchers at BAST to explore the feasibility of prescribing music to target specific mood states.

What Did the Study Discover?

The majority of participants used music for relaxation (90.15%), to enhance happiness (81.80%), to cope with sadness (46.5%), and to improve concentration (32.53%).

According to the study, the most effective relaxing music featured a slow tempo, simple melody, and no lyrics. It also has an ideal duration of 13 minutes. Participants reported various benefits such as reduced muscle tension, disappearance of negative thoughts, feelings of peace and contentment, and improved sleep quality.

What the Study Discovered

Only nine minutes of music, characterized by a driving rhythm, fast tempo, and positive lyrics, can uplift people. This music led to 89 percent reporting increased energy levels. Additionally, 65 percent were laughing more, and others felt more in control or ready to tackle challenges. These findings are promising for medical professionals exploring new treatments for conditions like anxiety and depression.

Do Other Studies Agree?

High-tempo music, specifically pop songs exceeding 170 beats per minute, was shown to boost performance during exercise. According to a study, this was particularly evident in endurance activities like running or cycling.

Music was discovered to enhance focus. Among BAST test subjects using music for concentration, just 13 minutes was sufficient to clear their minds, improve job performance for 91 percent of participants, and enhance decision-making clarity.

Additionally, music with relatable lyrics (also for 13 minutes) proved effective for addressing sadness. It provided listeners with a sense of relief, and stability, and reduced susceptibility to emotional triggers.

So, Why Do Sad Songs Make You Feel Good?

Empathizing with loss triggers the release of hormones like prolactin and oxytocin. They promote feelings of calmness, consolation, and support, aiding in coping with pain and loss.

We enjoy sad songs because they deeply “move” us, a sensation often referred to as being “moved by love” in Sanskrit. This experience can evoke physical responses like chills, goosebumps, and emotional surges. It can also include feelings of warmth and elation, sometimes even romantic in nature.

Feeling moved by music can stem from a sudden sense of closeness and connection to others.

Does sad music make you feel good?

You might also want to read: Our Favorite Sad Songs Throughout History