Netizens rally against theory equating music interest with depression

Hyderabad: Experts said a popular social media theory, which states that listening to music for several hours can be a sign of depression, was incorrect. Dangerously, a few netizens, upon reading the theory, self-diagnosed themselves to be clinically depressed.

Clinical psychologist Anita Are said that listening to music was a passive activity, which left one tangled in their thoughts, generally of bad or negative incidents. “The brain doesn’t remember good things easily but always remembers bad things instantly. Listening to music can never be a hobby. If a person is doing work while listening to music, will it make the person feel alive without feeling depressed,” she said.

“We never suggest to our clients to listen to music when we are treating them for depression as it is a passive activity. Instead, they can go for walks or practise aerobics. Thus, only when there is an outcome can it be called a hobby,” Anite Are said.

“When we hear a lecture for 2-3 hours, we feel sleepy. Why? It is because the brain gets tired. The same happens with music. Music is definitely healing and can calm and energise a person. But once its purpose is served, it should be stopped, else it will affect the person,” said Anita Are.

ENT specialists, meanwhile, advised against listening to music for long hours using earplugs. They noted that were were increasing cases of permanent hearing loss among youngsters who leave their earphones plugged in through the night.

Dr Praveen Kumar, an ENT specialist, said: “Headphones are better than earplugs, which heat up inside the ear. It is not advisable to listen to music for several hours at a stretch, especially with high frequency, using earplugs. Initially, people will feel energised while listening to music in high volume. But if they continue this they will slowly develop permanent hearing loss.”

Vox pop

Music is like therapy as it helps me disconnect from the outer world. It helps me focus and I listen to music while working.
- Yash Chawla, Radio presenter

Music plays an integral part in my day. Music is not a distraction. I am glued to it as I am interested in the whole process of how a particular music track is made. If you keep listening to sad songs, you will feel that way.
- Nithin Raj, Businessman

Music is very relaxing. I believe in vibes and can instantly connect with music that makes me happy. I listen to music when I want to clear my head and think creatively.
- Danishi Bhagat, Influencer

Music is like a necessity in my life, just like breathing.  I listen to it for several hours, which does not mean I am depressed. It is like therapy for me.
- Amita, Radio presenter