Therapeutic benefits of sad songs

[Skanky Vamp]

“Emotion regulation” was another important reward. Many respondents said that when they were in a bad mood, experiencing sadness through music made them feel better afterwards and provided an emotional boost. That may be because the songs help them to express and release their emotions, Taruffi noted.


"Sad music promotes and creates a space for reflection and reappraisal of personal experiences, thoughts and feelings," she added. The 'empathy' reward made the listener feel good by allowing him to share the sadness of another human being through the song.

More here

 

[SRMarx]

Interesting article.

I have to agree with the conclusions of the study too. Music has previously shown evidence of affecting people's emotions and feelings in many different ways. Music that is sad or melancholy gives people an appropriate space to express and feel negative emotions.

 

[Vigeous]

I can definitely agree with this. I find (with myself at least) this works the opposite way too. If I'm in a good mood, listening to happier, upbeat music will carry that mood into an even better mood (even if just for a minute or two).

I think it does help release emotions, even if you don't necessarily release them physically (crying etc). Interesting topic for sure.

 

[Doppelgang]

This sounds about right to me too. The right sad song really can help you to get out some emotions that you had been holding inside. It helps to remind you of what is really important in life. It allows you to feel alright to be vulnerable at times, and not always on your guard.