Music Therapy: Announcing Monthly Open Mic Nights
Restoration Recovery Center will have Open Mic Nights monthly to allow for freedom of expression through music and song. Check our schedule for the next planned evening.
Music therapy, which dates back to the 1970’s, is also an alternative pathway to recovery. Music therapy interventions are used in different clinical settings to improve the overall functioning and mental health of the patient. Clinical research has revealed that music therapy often shows positive results in those who don’t benefit from other recovery options.
Music is used as a form of creative self-expression and allows the person to communicate in a non-conventional manner. It is an easily accessible intervention, and the person doesn’t need a background or education in music to actively participate.
Music therapy allows patients to do the following:
Examine emotions and self-esteem
Enhance positivity
Empower themselves through success
Improve self-awareness
Increase attention and concentration
Build coping and problem-solving strategies
Enhance mindfulness and relaxation techniques
Improve interpersonal skills
Music Therapy in Trauma, Substance Abuse and Depression Treatment
Music sessions can be open to any individual looking to explore alternative pathways to Recovery. Over time, an individual’s participation within the music setting can strengthen his or her abilities, transferring that strength to other areas of life, such as decision-making, coping with cravings, and managing stress.
Research has shown that music intervention and alternative pathways are especially beneficial for individuals who are dealing with trauma, substance abuse, and depression. In fact, music alternatives have proven to effectively reduce muscle tension and anxiety while also improving relaxation and openness within interpersonal relationships. In many instances, an individual may not be willing to verbalize how they’re feeling (or they may be unable to) but music may help peers connect with other peers on an emotional level, opening the door to effective and non-threatening communication. Additionally, musical bonding experiences, such as composing and singing, can help groups of individuals in alcohol and drug recovery settings hear and understand each other more deeply, which strengthens the group culture and encourages healing.
Because individuals struggling with substance abuse problems are often using drugs and alcohol to cope with trauma of some kind, music can be particularly useful in helping them acknowledge and process negative emotions in a healthy way. Music alternatives have shown positive results in treating individuals who are survivors of violence and programs such as these are specifically designed to help survivors process the traumatic experience, reduce the stress associated with it, improve coping mechanisms, and relax.