Mozart Effect: Classical Music as Therapy for Anxiety Disorders

AURORA SOFIAYASMIN SM (30802300007)

            Music is something that many people enjoy. However, music is not just entertainment, but also provides benefits such as resolving mental health issues, one of which is anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders themselves are the body's response when a person experiences excessive stress, usually indicated by feelings of restlessness, headache, rapid heartbeat and chest tightness, and even digestive disorders such as nausea or stomach ache. To help reduce the symptoms of anxiety disorders, music therapy can be considered because it is highly effective, has no side effects like medication, and can alleviate the symptoms of anxiety disorders.

            Various researches have proven that music therapy can reduce symptoms of anxiety disorders, because music can help calm the mind, relax tense muscles and nerves caused by anxiety, and also create a calmer mood. The Nusantara Hasana Journal (2025) shows that both active music therapy (singing, playing music) and passive music therapy (listening to music) can reduce anxiety levels, improve sleep quality and mood, and increase social skills.

            Anxiety disorders that are not treated immediately will have a serious impact on a person's mental and even physical health. Therefore, it is important to take anxiety disorders seriously and choose effective therapy. Music therapy can help you relax and calm down in a pleasant way. According to an article by Alodokter (2025), when listening to music, the body reduces the production of a stress hormone called cortisol. With lower stress hormone levels, the mind becomes more peaceful and emotions become more balanced. Once you feel calmer, the body can also rest and function better.

            The kind of music picked for music therapy is really depends on the taste and condition of people with anxiety disorders. The most important thing is that the music should match the patient's personal preferences so they feel comfortable and can connect emotionally. But it's even better if the music picked is classical music. According to Nurseha (2012), classical music can calm a person's mind and emotions because it produces alpha waves and differences in the human eardrum that put the brain in a state of relaxation. And the classical music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791) is the most recommended.

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            Mozart's music is characterized by regular melodies, soothing frequencies, and stable harmonies. When Mozart's music is played, it has a calming effect on the mind and body, reduces stress hormones, and helps a person feel more relaxed yet focused. Research at the Bali Provincial Mental Hospital showed that administering Mozart music therapy twice a day for 6 days, with each session lasting about 30 minutes, successfully reduced anxiety in nurses (Journal of Nursing Science News, Vol. 15 (1), 2022). Respondents reported feelings of calm and comfort, as well as a more relaxed work atmosphere after therapy.

            Using music therapy to treat anxiety disorders by using the Mozart effect is an easy and enjoyable way to help reduce the symptoms of anxiety disorders. In the context of anxiety therapy, listening to Mozart's music can help calm a restless mind, reduce muscle tension, and distract from negative thoughts that increase anxiety. Additionally, this therapy is easy to do anytime and anywhere, simply by regularly playing Mozart's works. This therapy is not only enjoyable but also safe without the side effects of medication, making it a natural choice for effectively managing anxiety.