A study published in the journal PLOS Mental Health has shown that listening to specially selected music for just 24 minutes can significantly reduce anxiety levels. A group of psychologists conducted an analysis of the impact of music combined with so-called auditory rhythms—gentle sound stimulation that affects the brain.
In an experiment involving 144 adults suffering from moderate anxiety and already receiving medication, participants were divided into two groups. One group listened to "pink noise," while the other listened to music with various rhythmic stimuli. Researchers assessed the anxiety levels and emotional states of participants before and after listening, using standard psychological methods.
The greatest effect was observed in participants who listened to music for 24 minutes. This session significantly reduced both psychological and physical manifestations of anxiety and proved to be as effective as longer sessions, while significantly outperforming the shorter 12-minute version. Music without rhythmic elements did not demonstrate a similar positive effect.
The authors of the study emphasize that this approach could be a valuable addition to traditional therapy methods. Music therapy has advantages—it does not require medication, has almost no side effects, and can be used for quick anxiety reduction in everyday life.
