Sad Music is Cathartic?

Introduction

Sad music often evokes a range of emotions and for many, it serves as a powerful tool for catharsis. While some may shy away from the melancholic tones, others find solace and healing in the depths of these songs. 

In this blog post, we'll delve into the reasons why sad music resonates with us, its potential benefits for emotional regulation and how it can provide comfort, especially for those dealing with depression.

Sad Music is Cathartic?

Personally, I believe that certain sad music/sad songs are able to bring about a cathartic release to people who listen to them. At least that is true for me. 

An article on wellness.pittsburghsymphony.org states that sad music could help listeners to regulate their emotions in a productive manner. This is because when they listen to sad music, they're actually processing, rather than ignoring, sadness through music. And as a result, they  experience catharsis and improvements in mood. 

According to the author of Healing at the Speed of Sound, music psychology researcher Patrick Hunter has found that sad music often provides cathartic release, allowing people to work toward equilibrium at their own pace. 

Do note, however, that listening to sad music could have an adverse effect on some people.

Why Do People Like Sad Music?

What is it about sad music that seems to appeal to some (if not many) of us?

Blogs.unimelb.edu.au states that "several studies conducted by music psychologists suggest that people who are high in empathy are more likely to enjoy sad music." 

An article on exploringyourmind.com states that music "leads to emotional catharsis", helping you break free from complex feelings and emotions. An article on another website, scienceabc.com states that listening to sad music "is believed to facilitate catharsis from negative emotions".

Because sad music has an apparent ability to bring about a cathartic release of negative emotions,  this explains why some people simply like sad music.

Is Sad Music Effective for People with Depression?

Does sad music help people with depression? Or will listening to sad music make depression worse for some people? 

Well, according to theverge.com, research suggests that people who're suffering from depression do feel better after listening to sad music. 

I can't speak for other people; but for me personally, listening to certain sad music/sad songs is cathartic and therefore helps me to feel better, especially when I'm feeling depressed. 

The Appeal of Sad Music to Me?

As I've mentioned above, certain sad music is really able to provide some kind of cathartic release for me. And so in that sense, certain sad music does appeal to me. 

If you know that you've some deep-rooted emotional issues that need to be released in order to experience wholeness, you might want to consider listening to sad music that appeals to you.

Conclusion

Sad music holds a unique place in our emotional landscape, offering a means to process feelings and find cathartic release. While it may not be for everyone, many individuals, including myself, find that certain sad songs can help us navigate our emotions and foster healing. 

If you resonate with the power of sad music, consider exploring tracks that speak to your heart. Remember, it's okay to embrace your feelings and let the music guide you toward emotional wholeness. 

Don't forget to check out my latest music video, "Wish," and stay tuned for more!


Cheers,

Annie Chan

(P/s: Please subscribe to my YouTube channel here: Annie's Music Everywhere. Thanks!:)

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