Music Therapy Against Addiction

The Benefit to Music Therapy in Rehabilitation Centers

By Elizabeth Ambrose

“What can we do?” Professionals working in drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers have been asking this question for decades as the ongoing epidemic of substance abuse continues in our country. According to the National Substance Abuse and Addiction Statistics organization (NCDAS), accidental drug overdose is the leading cause of death for persons under the age of 45. Over 70,000 drug overdose deaths occur in the US each year. Within Allegheny county alone, collected data has suggested a recent 44% increase in overdose deaths when compared to the previous year (Data on Opioid Use and Overdose).

People who suffer from substance addiction can attend a rehabilitation center to seek out treatment. There are many treatment centers within the Pittsburgh area that offer various services to promote successful recovery with their clients. A unique service that can be provided is music therapy.

Music therapy focuses on healing areas such as a person’s physical needs, social needs, and mental health needs. Music therapists have a strong presence in the treatment of substance abuse. Since the 20th century there have been numerous studies published on the benefits of music therapy in rehabilitation clinics. Music therapists in these settings can utilize experiences with clients such as: