Music as a therapeutic resource in mental health intervention.

Abstract

From the follow-up of a music group in a Psychosocial Care Center for Alcohol and Drugs, a study with drug users was developed to understand the role of music in their lives and in the treatment and, based on the results, to think the use of music as a therapeutic resource. This is a qualitative research with analytical/descriptive characteristics. Bibliographic analysis, observations and interviews were submitted for content analysis. From the results, two main topics emerged: Impacts of Music and Therapeutic Potential of Music. Impacts can be positive, when resulting in well-being, memories of good times and social relation improvement, or negative, according to music styles and messages, which may be associated to interferences in the treatment. Regarding the therapeutic potential, it was found that music helps to establish bonds and to develop personal and collective changes. As a conclusion, music promotes expression of emotions and perception of reality, and its use in the therapeutic context favors internal balance and exchange spaces.