Date Presented

Spring 5-2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Dr. Kristin Shargots

Second Advisor

Dr. Amanda Pribble

Third Advisor

Dr. Jennifer Styrsky

Abstract

Nursing science deals with the holistic care of human beings and the management of patient conditions. Nursing interventions for mental illnesses include pharmacological and non-pharmacological practices. Pharmacological therapy is typically prescribed to treat mental illnesses such as anxiety and can lead to dependency. This could be detrimental to the patient. It is why this research is investigating non-pharmacological interventions such as music therapy for the treatment of anxiety and depression. Although music therapy has been used in cases with patients with anxiety and depression as a supplement to pharmacological therapy, the objective of this study is to explore the effectiveness of music therapy as a non-pharmacological intervention and as an alternative treatment of anxiety and depression. Furthermore, nursing practice recommendations will be made based on the evidence found.

Hypothesis: Music therapy will be effective in alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Method: Peer-reviewed literature involving studies on human subjects were reviewed and analyzed. The literature used in this review were 15 in total and they included meta-analyses, qualitative and quantitative research.

Results: The findings from the literature review suggest that music therapy is effective in alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression as a short-term stand-alone therapy. To determine if it can be used as an alternative to pharmacological therapy, further research would have to be done.

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