When you’re going through cancer, taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is just as important as managing your physical health. Cancer can bring an overwhelming mix of emotions from fear, sadness, stress, or even numbness. Self-care techniques like music therapy, along with art therapy and storytelling, can help you process what you’re feeling in a safe and creative way.

You don’t need to be a professional musician, artist, or writer to benefit from these approaches. You just need to be open to trying something new, something that might help you feel a little more like yourself again, even if just for a moment.

Why music therapy?

No matter your cancer stage, music has the potential to bring comfort, release, and even joy. Think about how a certain song can instantly transport you back to a moment in time, lift your spirits, or express emotions that are hard to put into words. That’s the power of music.

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Music therapy is a nonpharmaceutical, low-risk, and easily accessible option that can be used alongside traditional treatment to help manage the emotional and physical challenges of cancer. Whether you’re in a hospital, at home, or in a group setting, music therapy offers flexibility, empowering you to find what works best for you.

How does music therapy work?

Music therapy is a research-backed practice provided by trained, board-certified professionals who use music to support your physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being. For people with cancer, it can help reduce pain, calm anxiety, lift your mood, and create a sense of peace without the side effects that sometimes come with medications.

Sessions are personalized and may include:

• Listening to music and reflecting on your emotions
• Singing, playing instruments, or writing your own lyrics
• Creating playlists to use during treatment or for relaxation
• Using music as part of a nighttime routine to improve sleep

You don’t need any musical experience to participate. What matters is how the music makes you feel.

Is music therapy proven to work?

According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology, music therapy can be just as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in reducing anxiety for people with cancer. Music can lower stress hormones, lessen pain, enhance sleep, and improve memory and focus. It’s also been shown to help ease anxiety for people in survivorship and help them process life after a diagnosis. 

How can music therapy help me?

Your music therapy experience can be tailored to your needs. You can listen on your own, join a group, or work with a music therapist. If you’re interested in trying out music therapy, ask your care team if your center has a program or get a referral to a music therapist.

Music therapy can help you manage a wide range of cancer-related symptoms, strengthen your bonds with loved ones and even make new friends, as well as help you find some joy in life. 

Can I practice music therapy on my own?

Absolutely. One of the best things about music therapy is how accessible it is. You can try it on your own, anytime, anywhere. You might start by:

• Creating mood-based playlists (calming, energizing, uplifting)
• Listening to music while journaling or meditating
• Singing along to your favorite songs as a form of release
• Using music during walks or stretches

Beyond music: Other forms of creative expression

If music doesn’t speak to you, there are other options to explore. Art therapy helps many people work through emotions with drawing, painting, or collage. Storytelling or journaling can help you make sense of your experiences. Reading or listening to other people’s stories can also serve as a powerful reminder that you’re not alone.

As always, if you would like to connect with an Outcomes4Me oncology nurse practitioner at no charge through the Outcomes4Me app, just use the “Ask Outcomes4Me” button.