Teaching Music to Students with Anxiety and Depression

Music has long been recognized for its therapeutic benefits, particularly in alleviating anxiety and depression. In my Teaching music experience to individuals struggling with these conditions, music can be a powerful tool for emotional expression, stress relief, and self-discovery. However, it requires a sensitive and supportive approach to ensure that learning remains a positive and healing experience.

Why do students experience anxiety or depression in the music class? is it because they dislike you. No, not at all. There could be a number of factors.

1. Parents expectations for the child to be an A+ in everything. And if the child doesn’t fulfil it then they are punished.

2. Constant arguments in the home that takes away the peace of mind of the student.

3. Competing with another student of high calibre but experiencing repeated failures.

4. Being Belittled by a smarter student who have average intelligence.

5. Being bullied due to a disability or deformity.

6. Fear of meeting new faces or being claustrophobic (fear of crowds)

First and foremost, you need to make a parent understand that every child is unique and gifted in their own way and so cannot be compared to another student. Setting deadlines to finish a book or answering a grade exam should be avoided as music should be taught with love and pleasure. It should be enjoyed, taught in parts in order to avoid stress of practicing long scores. Getting an A+ is good but if you dont get it, it’s not the end of the world. We need to remember that failures are stepping stones to success.

One effective strategy is creating a safe and non-judgmental learning environment. Many individuals with anxiety or depression may fear failure or criticism, so it’s essential to foster encouragement and patience. Show love if the student needs love. Personalized lessons that allow students to progress at their own pace can reduce pressure and make learning more enjoyable. Foster friendships and applauds from all students in the class if it is a group setting.

The choice of instruments and musical styles can also influence the experience. Instruments like the piano, guitar, or handpan offer soothing tones that can help regulate emotions. Simple, repetitive melodies or improvisation can provide a meditative experience, helping students focus and reduce stress. Rhythm-based activities, such as drumming, can also be particularly beneficial, as they promote mindfulness and physical engagement.

Moreover, incorporating music therapy techniques, such as guided breathing exercises with music or songwriting, allows students to express emotions in a constructive way. Encouraging self-expression through composing or singing can help individuals articulate feelings they may struggle to verbalize.

Remind the student that even if their home environment is bad, you are there for them no matter what. Assure and reassure. We all need someone who we can confide our problems with. 
Explain the bullies the disadvantages of belittling another person and how hurt one can feel. Avoid labelling students based on their intelligence levels. Stop giving marks in the class as this again will create a huge rift between students with high calibre and those who do not have it. The smart students will always score high and the others will always score low. And this will create a feeling of being “useless” in the class. Treat all with equal love and respect. Encourage the word “Sorry” in the class.

Teaching music to those with anxiety and depression is more than just instruction—it is an opportunity for healing and connection. With patience, empathy, and adaptive teaching methods, music can become a powerful ally in mental health recovery, providing comfort, joy, and a sense of accomplishment.