And it’s not just Spotify.
Did I listen to more upbeat or down-tempo artists?
More sad girl indie or hyper-pop remixes?
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And what does this assortment of artists and genres say about my mental health?
Can it cause a lower mood?
And would it be better to listen to more upbeat, cheerful music?
However, music doesnt appear to be the cause.
Rather, music preference can be indicative of emotional vulnerability.
Studies have shown that excessive listening to particular music types can incitedysfunctional ruminationwhich is closely linked to depression.
The answer isn’t so clear-cut.
The well-meaning advice to listen to happy music as a mood booster might not always be right for everyone.
Many common subcultures, from punk to hip-hop to goth to emo, have music right at their core.
Even being part of thefandomof one specific band or artist can form a huge part of somebodys identity.
So can fandomgo too far, even affecting our mental health?
Theres a danger that were changingwhywe listen to music.
Even if, for some people, that means listening to them thousands of times.
He describes them as taking a toll on our feelings of safety in the world and quality of life.
But music can really help our mental health.
The connection with music is very personal.
Indeed, many people use Spotify for relaxation, for meditation, or just for healing.
White and brown noise playlists and all kinds of ambient artists are very popular on Spotify.
And certainly, theres nothing inherently wrong with that.
But its important not to overanalyze the results.
It can be difficult not to, however.
Ficek contrasts a healthy approach with an unhealthy approach.
We can go through phases of enjoying different music.
Spotify Wrapped is fun, too, but we shouldn’t read too much into it.
MacDonald RAR.Music, health, and well-being: A review.International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-being.
2016;47:66-71. doi: 10.1016/j.aip.2015.12.002
