And its almost magical how listening to your playlist can turn a bad day into a good night.

It affects our brains, our bodies, and our social connections.

And theres no doubt that many people have relied on music to get through the pandemic.

The pandemic brought most social activities to a screeching halt for over a year.

So many of us were left feeling bored, anxious, andlonely.

Stay-at-home orders meant many of our go-to coping skills were taken away.

Fortunately, most of us were still able to access music.

Music Improves Our Mental Health

Music can haveprofound effects on our physical and psychological well-being.

Researchers have discovered it can lessen pain, reduce depression, and decrease anxiety.

Of course, you probably dont need a detailed study to recognize the benefits of music.

You may have already noticed that listening to or creating music helps you feel better.

An overwhelming 79% of our readers said they turned to music during the pandemic to cope.

Others used music as a means to connect with people.

Clearly, many used music to combat loneliness.

One in five readers said they used music as a way toconnect with othersduring the pandemic.

Here are some of the things our readers did during the pandemic.

But there may be times you find yourself turning to a sad song when youre alreadyfeeling depressed.

And while this can be helpful when feeling good, music can also reinforce unpleasant feelings.

People who are depressed are more likely to listen to music that reinforces their depression.

Research shows that a person whoruminateswhich is highly predictive of depressionwill likely be attracted to music that intensifies depression.

Consequently, they keep listening to music that reinforces their feelings.

So its important to consider how the music youre listening to is actually impacting your mental health.

Its hard to be objective about it if youre already feeling depressed.

It was a coping skill that helped many people deal with the emotional turmoil of the pandemic.

Listening to upbeat songs might be key to helping you feel happier.

But if you find yourself struggling to find happy songs, theres a reason for that.

Heres a playlist you’re free to reach for when you want a boost in mood.

The total sample consisted of 1,031 U.S. adults who listen to music.

Demographics are as follows:

Garrido S., Schubert E.Moody melodies: do they cheer us up?

A study of the effect of sad music on mood.