Tuned In: How Playing an Instrument Boosts Mental Health in Kids and Teens

By Lisa Foydel

Most people have experienced the joy of listening to, singing along with, or playing music. Think of the excitement of attending your first professional musical performance. Whether it was a rock concert or a symphony orchestra, you left feeling upbeat and energized. Listening to music while exercising, walking the dog, or doing chores at home, chances are you enjoyed the activity more because of the music. 

The mental health benefits of music are well-researched and proven. Playing an instrument offers numerous mental health advantages across all age groups. Research from Harvard University and the Mayo Clinic underscores how musical activities can enhance mood, alleviate stress, and bolster cognitive functions.

Since 2020 and the COVID-19 pandemic, much has been written about the mental health crisis many of our children face. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and here at Midwest Music Conservatory, we recognize the health benefits of playing a musical instrument. For children and teens, learning to play a musical instrument goes far beyond just acquiring a new skill. It nurtures emotional and psychological development in powerful ways.

Stress Reduction and Emotional Well-being

Playing an instrument can serve as a therapeutic outlet, helping to manage stress and anxiety. Surya Sundar, a violin student told us, “I feel a sense of calm when I play the violin. I tend to pick up and play the violin for a few minutes when I feel stressed.” If a 14-year-old boy understands this, no further proof may be needed.

Emotional Regulation and Expression

Playing an instrument offers children a healthy, creative outlet to process and express their emotions. There are many ways to express creativity, but music is more physical than most creative outlets and requires more focus than physical outlets. For some it’s the perfect mix of energetic and cerebral focus resulting in a calm sensation after playing. Music helps people channel their feelings in a constructive way that reduces emotional tension.

Building Confidence and Self-Esteem

Mastering an instrument takes practice and perseverance. As children progress, they experience a strong sense of achievement. This is similar to doing well in sports or academics. Whether it’s nailing a difficult piece or performing in front of others, these milestones build confidence and foster a growth mindset setting them up for mental resilience.

Enhancing Focus and Reducing Anxiety

Playing music well requires sustained attention, coordination, and timing. Engaging in regular practice has been shown to improve concentration and mindfulness. According to Harvard Health, this kind of focused, immersive activity can reduce anxiety by anchoring attention in the present moment in a similar fashion to meditation. Even listening to calming music can have this effect on people.

Social Connection

Not to be underestimated, learning an instrument often involves collaborative environments, orchestras, duets, chamber ensembles, or group classes. These shared experiences promote a sense of belonging and peer connection, both critical to adolescent mental health. Group music-making also teaches empathy, cooperation, and patience.

See Director Brian Hoffman’s article about the friendships he made while performing with various Chamber ensembles.

Creating Routine and Structure

For children and teens struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, or behavioral challenges, musical practice can offer a stable and positive routine. Scheduled lessons and daily practice provide predictability and structure, which are especially beneficial for emotional regulation and a sense of control, which many children and teens lack.

Support During Transitions and Stressful Times

Music can be a steady companion during the often tumultuous transitions of childhood and adolescence. From dealing with academic pressure to navigating social changes or family challenges, instruments can serve as a form of self-soothing and personal retreat. The ability to use music as a way to create common ground during life changes like moving is a clear benefit and allows children and teens to find people with shared interests quickly. This in itself can prevent anxiety, loneliness and stress.

Playing a musical instrument can be a transformative tool for youth - or adult - mental health. It provides joy and connection. For many people, young and old, it becomes a meaningful part of their identity and mental wellness toolkit. For others, it may be a fun hobby that lasts a lifetime. 

If you or someone you love is struggling with depression or anxiety, the Suicide Prevention Lifeline is three simple numbers away. Don’t wait until it’s an emergency to dial 988.