Efficacy of humanistic music therapy for healing patients with post-storke depression

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the efficacy of Humanistic Music Therapy to reduce post-stroke depression. The method is a single-case design (ABAB). The participant is diagnosed with post-stroke depression who was admitted to the rehabilitation medicine ward 5 at Phramongkutklao hospital. The study uses the Thai Geriatric Depression Scale (TGDS) to assess and measure the level of depression. Cortisol hormone levels in saliva using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). It employs an ABAB design, alternating between baseline (A) and music therapy (B) phases, including music listening, improvisation, song analysis, music for relaxation. Both phrases occur between 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. over 12 sessions. Depression scores were reported as graph and compared between baseline and music therapy phases.

The study observed a consistent decline in depression scores during the music therapy period, with the average score decreased from 15.33 at the beginning to 9.33 points at the study's end. Cortisol levels in saliva, a stress marker, decreased significantly from 0.165 to 0.131 µg/dL post-therapy. This reduction suggests a decrease in stress and anxiety, correlating with the decline in depression scores.

In summary, Humanistic Music Therapy has demonstrated its potential to reduce depression in stroke patients. The aesthetic qualities of music have a profound influence, stimulating mood and enabling patients to express their emotions and self-reflection. This process motivates individuals to believe in their own potential and, ultimately, leads them towards a state of pleasure and happiness.