How Music Therapy May Benefit Individuals With ACC or Aicardi Syndrome

Both adults and children with ACC or Aicardi Syndrome may derive numerous benefits from music therapy. Music therapy has helped numerous individuals deal with a variety of mental health issues, from aging-related conditions to substance abuse problems to trauma. It is beneficial not only for those with special needs; it aids with overall development in general. And one need not be musically talented to reap the benefits of this type of therapy. It can be helpful for anyone.

What is music therapy?

Music therapy encompasses a wide range of activities and interactions. It can involve something as simple as listening to music, or it could entail learning to play an instrument, percussion activities, or guided imagery. While actual music therapy must be done by a trained professional therapist, there are also therapeutic and mental health benefits from listening to music in one’s daily life. It is important to note that this is an evidence-based form of therapy.

Benefits of music therapy.

Music therapy has been demonstrated to aid in both mental and physical health. It can reduce blood pressure, heart rate, and muscle tension and help with pain management. Music therapy can improve memory, and help support coping skills, self-regulation, and communication with others. And it is excellent for the relief of stress and stress-related symptoms such as anxiety, restlessness, or depression. Clearly, music therapy has a lot to offer whether one has a disability, is in recovery, or simply wants to pursue improved wellness in general.

How music affects the brain.

Music stimulates and exercises the brain in a variety of ways, and this is evident in the fact that musicians often have healthier and better-developed brains than non-musicians. Music can help with functions related to memory, motor control, and spatial coordination. It can also aid in brain symmetry. Many musicians have an especially well-developed corpus callosum: this is the system of nerves connecting the two hemispheres of the brain. This is significant since in individuals with ACC or Aicardi Syndrome this segment of the brain is underdeveloped or even absent. Now, not every individual with ACC or Aicardi Syndrome benefits from or even enjoys music – but many do.

How to implement music therapy.

You may want to seek out a licensed and trained professional music therapist for yourself or your child.  Or you may decide you want to access the benefits of music by learning to play an instrument, learning to compose, or working on expanding your appreciation for different musical genres.

Types of music that are most beneficial.

While classical, instrumental music can be popular in music therapy, it turns out that often rock and roll can also work well. Additionally, there is a type of music, binaural beats, which has been created and developed specifically for its therapeutic effects

Including more music in your daily life.

If you or your child are among the many who find music and music therapy beneficial for managing your condition, try out different ways of incorporating music into your everyday routine. Have playlists put together for different activities, moods, and times of day. Try learning the lyrics to your favorite songs, or even how to play them on an instrument such as piano or guitar. If you have room in your house, set up a listening station where you or your child can escape. Make sure your listening station is set up so it won’t disturb others and provide it with comfortable furniture and cushions. If you don’t have space for large, high-quality speakers, a soundbar may be a perfectly satisfactory and affordable alternative.

Music therapy may not be beneficial for everyone with your condition – or it could make a significant difference. So sample different types of therapy, and different types of music, and consider reaching out to a professional therapist. If you are living with ACC or Aicardi Syndrome, in the UK, and are in search of more information, you can contact the Corpal Helpline at +44(0)7427 429 388 or look into their membership programs.

Image via Pixabay