We are aware that drugs can help with depression and anxiety. Anti-depressants have become the treatment of choice to a large extent in curing a variety of mood disorders. A change in attitude can often attain similar results. In other words, the mind can alter the brain.
If the connections within the brain change from electrical to chemical at the synapses, attitude and activity can go along way to change our internal chemistry. It does not always work so easily and sometimes in extreme cases prescription drugs are necessary, however, exercise and the right kind of psychological stimulus can surprise us. Watching a “feel-good” movie or learning something new or listening to music are prime examples.
If you combined music with learning something new by undertaking to learn an instrument or simply strengthen your music appreciation, you might find such an endeavor brings with it new found hope, faith in the future and improved brain function.
In troubling times such as these, depression and anxiety readily crop up even for those not prone to depression. But simple pleasures and maintaining a positive attitude even to the point of absurdity can be keys to mental well-being, not to mention our very survival.