A Musical Escape from the Stress of Caregiving

Guest blogger, Kathy Porter

When a loved one faces a life-changing illness, stress often becomes an unwelcome companion. Whether it is the added burden of paying bills, coordinating medical visits, taking on extra household duties, or just the anticipation of what is in the future, stress can take a toll on our mental well-being.

As a caregiver for my partner who was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in 2014, I sometimes find myself complaining, irritable, and just generally tense due to the pressure of caregiving. Luckily there is an effective and accessible tool to help: music. Listening to music helps me keep a better attitude and avoid feeling down. Here is what I have learned.

Nearly everyone likes music

Music is a universal language that crosses cultural boundaries. It appeals to people of all ages, from babies to seniors. People have used music for celebrations, rituals, and quiet moments. Scientists who have investigated the benefits of music on the brain have found that music can stimulate regions of the brain associated with emotion, memory, and stress.

Musical choices are a deeply personal matter as different genres and styles appeal to people in unique ways. Upbeat and energetic tunes can supply an instant mood boost offering a surge of motivation and positivity. On the other hand, soothing melodies and calming rhythms can create a serene atmosphere and help to promote relaxation.

Practical benefits of listening to music

Music serves as a powerful distraction from the challenges of daily life. While listening to a favorite song or playlist or relaxing music, I find I can momentarily escape the pressures of responsibilities and worry. This mental break allows me to get a fresh perspective on the tasks at hand.

Moreover, music can trigger emotions and memories. Certain songs have the power to transport us to specific moments in our lives, prompting nostalgia and a sense of connection. It was a way for me to bond with my aging mother at the end of her life. This emotional response can be particularly enjoyable, giving us an outlet for reflection and expression.

Listening to music is easy

Listening to music could be the easiest self-care activity I practice. No matter what source of music you choose, there is nothing easier than listening to music. It takes no effort and no skill. Turn on the radio while you do household chores or fall asleep to calming classics. You can listen to music while you shower, while you drive, or while you do nearly anything else. In trying to manage the anxiety and stress of caregiving, I have developed the habit of listening to music instead of stressful news, talk radio, or mindless TV.

It has never been easier to find music you enjoy. Today music is portable and available almost anywhere. It is easy for anyone to carry their favorite songs wherever they go, creating a portable stress-management tool. Whether through streaming services, personal playlists, or radio, the variety of musical options makes it easy to tailor our listening experience to our preferences.

Playlists for caregivers

Luckily for us caregivers, others have made it even easier for us to find music for our situation. Here are three playlists that were created specifically for caregivers:

Suggestions for your playlist

Streaming technology makes it a cinch to make your own selections and create a personal playlist. Many streaming services have a free option. Streaming services on the web include Pandora, Spotify, SoundCloud, and YouTube among others. All kinds of music are available on these services, from classical, jazz, country, movie soundtracks, popular tunes, and relaxing music. Here are some of my favorite songs, which I’ve included on my own playlist:

Up On the Roof by James Taylor
Life is Beautiful by Keb’ Mo’
Feeling Good by Nina Simone
Days Like This by Van Morrison
Watching the River Run by Loggins & Messina
You Gotta Be by Des’ree
On the Sunny Side of the Street by Willie Nelson
Here Comes the Sun by the Beatles
Unstoppable by Rascal Flatts
Take me Home, Country Roads by John Denver

Summary

I listen to music to relieve stress and improve my mood. It offers me a distraction and brings up good memories, and I often find myself singing or humming along. I’ve found it to be an easy pick-me-up when I’m dealing with the tiring tasks and emotions of caregiving.