Music has long been a therapeutic tool for people struggling with addiction, depression, and other mental health issues. But what exactly is music rehab, and how does it work to improve the lives of those in treatment? If you’re considering this addiction treatment technique for yourself or a loved one, it may help to know how music affects the brain in music rehab. Call 833.999.1941 to speak with someone from Solution Based Treatment & Detox (SBT) about music rehab in California—such as our Rock to Recovery program.
What Is Music Rehab for Addiction Treatment?
Music rehab is a therapy that uses music to help people overcome their addictions by addressing underlying issues. It combines traditional talk therapy with creative activities, such as:
- Listening to music
- Playing instruments
- Songwriting
Music rehab works by helping clients process difficult emotions, increase self-awareness, and develop better coping skills. For example, when someone feels overwhelmed by cravings or intrusive thoughts related to their addiction, they can use music as an emotional outlet. This can be done by singing along to a favorite song or playing an instrument like a guitar or piano. Doing so helps them stay focused on the present moment rather than dwelling on past experiences or future anxieties.
SBT’s Rock to Recovery program is an excellent way to experience music affecting the brain in Murrieta, California.
What Is Rock to Recovery?
After his struggles with alcohol and drug addiction resulted in a stay at rehab, Wesley Geer—known as a founding member of Hed P.E.—established Rock to Recovery on December 12, 2012. Music had become something entirely different for him since entering addiction treatment.
After overcoming the odds and remaining sober for two years, Geer was offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become Korn’s touring guitar player. His journey then took him around the world while he toured with them, and upon returning home, he chose to give back by bringing music into addiction treatment centers through Rock to Recovery. Geer has expanded Rock to Recovery into a widely sought-after therapeutic approach in numerous addiction treatment facilities thanks to his connections within the music industry.
In our music therapy program, SBT clients get hands-on experience writing lyrics, composing, mixing, and recording songs of their creation on studio recording equipment. Rock to Recovery songs are professionally mixed and produced with help from our knowledgeable and experienced staff.
How Does Music Affect the Brain in Rehab?
Music releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward pathways in the brain. When these pathways are activated, they can help reduce anxiety levels and create euphoria, making it easier for people to focus on recovery goals. Additionally, research suggests that musical training may even increase connectivity between parts of the brain involved in decision-making skills and emotion regulation. Engaging with music during treatment may help people learn how to regulate their emotions more effectively over time.
People who have struggled with addiction for many years often have difficulty expressing themselves verbally due to trauma or negative self-talk. For these individuals, expressing themselves through creative outlets like music can be incredibly helpful in processing difficult emotions. Additionally, those who have had positive experiences with music before entering treatment may find it easier to connect with traditional talk therapy if they can incorporate elements of their favorite songs into sessions.
Find Music Rehab in California at Solution Based Treatment & Detox
Music rehab is an effective way for individuals struggling with addiction to process difficult emotions and build better coping skills during treatment. It helps activate pleasure pathways in the brain while also strengthening connections between areas involved in emotion regulation. Contact SBT today at 833.999.1941 to learn more about how music affecting the brain in Murrieta, California, can help our clients participating in our addiction treatment programs.