Music is good for patients
Dr. Önsüz, one of the authors of the review article titled "The Use of Music Therapy in Various Physical and Mental Conditions and Its Effects on Cancer Patients Receiving Radiotherapy," explained the effects of music therapy in the field of health.
Önsüz stated that music therapy is a professional practice that aims to help individuals feel better physically, emotionally, mentally and socially by utilizing the positive effects of music on human health.
Önsüz stated that a special relationship is established between the therapist and the individual during this process and that this therapy is conducted using scientific methods. He said, "Different techniques such as improvisation, composing, or simply listening to music can be used in the sessions. If the person wishes, they can play an instrument, sing, or simply share their feelings by listening to music."
Dr. Önsüz emphasized that the biggest difference between music therapy and traditional therapies is that music is a non-verbal and universal means of communication, offering individuals new ways to express themselves.
Önsüz emphasized that the main goal is to improve a person's health under the guidance of a therapist, adding, "Therefore, it must be implemented by a trained therapist."
Önsüz emphasized that music has been used as a healing and healing tool in many cultures throughout human history, saying, "Music therapy among the Turks has a history spanning approximately 6,000 years. For example, Ibn Sina studied the effects of music on mental and physical health and used music, particularly in the treatment of mental illnesses. This demonstrates the deep-rooted and universal history of music therapy."
Önsüz emphasized that music therapy has become a professional health discipline practiced in hospitals, clinics, and community centers supported by scientific research and training programs, and shared the information, "Recent neuroscience studies clearly demonstrate the positive effects of music on the brain and hormones."
Önsüz noted that music therapy has gained an important place in modern medicine as a complementary and holistic treatment method.
A SIGNIFICANT REDUCTION IN ANXIETY, PAIN, AND FATIGUE LEVELSÖnsüz stated that the radiotherapy process is a very challenging process both physically and psychologically, adding, "Patients may experience feelings such as anxiety, pain, fatigue, loneliness, and sometimes hopelessness during this period."
Önsüz explained that the long 25-30 session treatment process can negatively impact patients' motivation and compliance with treatment, saying, "This is where music therapy comes in. Music distracts patients from negative emotions. It can give them a sense of relief and hope."
Önsüz stated that relaxation exercises added to music therapy can also reduce stress hormones, adding, "Research shows that music therapy applied during radiotherapy provides a significant reduction in patients' anxiety, pain, and fatigue levels."
Önsüz informed that it is possible to make the treatment process more tolerable with music therapy.
POSITIVE FEELINGS INCREASE WHEN FAVORITE MUSIC IS PREFERREDÖnsüz stated that patients' cultural and personal preferences are highly valued in music therapy, saying, "Some patients may prefer Far Eastern melodies or calming music with a gentle rhythm. In particular, instruments that create a meditative effect, such as the ney flute, or peaceful modes like the saba makam, can be used."
Önsüz also emphasized that patients' self-selected music enables them to participate in sessions more willingly.
Önsüz, who stated that both active and receptive methods are used in music therapy, said, "Studies have shown that people feel better and that relaxation and positive emotions are more pronounced when they choose their favorite music."
Önsüz said that significant strides have been made in the field of music therapy in Türkiye in recent years, noting that centers have been established and training programs have begun at some universities.
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