It might sound a little out there, but electronic dance music can do some powerful stuff for our brains.
A new study has dived into why EDM music can actually boost our mental health and why it’s a genre worth cranking up when you’re feeling low.
US healthcare software provider Tebra looked at over 68,000 Spotify tracks with 1,000 people to see how music impacted their mental wellbeing.
Turns out, one in 10 people said EDM is their "go-to" when feeling sad or down, but nearly eight in 10 people surveyed said they use music to help pull themselves out of tough times, showing just how powerful music can be in general.
About 43% of EDM fans reported being in good mental health, so there’s gotta be something in it, right?
With it being Mental Health Awareness Week here in Aotearoa, we’ve decided to pull together a bit of a feel-good playlist of the George FM team’s top tracks that boost their mood.
So take a breath, have a kani kani to these tracks and enjoy, all in the name of science.
George FM’s favourite EDM tunes
Tammy Davis - ‘Pushing on’ by Oliver $ & Jimi Jules
General Lee - ‘Underworld’ by Born Slippy (eSQUIRE Remix)
Abeiku - ‘Obvs’ by Jamie XX
Sin Howard - 'Sunsleeper' by Barry Can’t Swim
Beccie B - ‘It Just Won't Do’ by Tim Deluxe
According to Deep Rhythm: “EDM can stimulate the release of endorphins and dopamine, chemicals in the brain that promote feelings of happiness and pleasure.” Those changes in the brain are said to help with symptoms of depression and anxiety.
As mental health has become a bigger conversation, it’s important to remember it’s okay to talk and ask for help.
Need help, or just wanna talk to someone?
Lifeline – 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP).
Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO).
Depression Helpline – 0800 111 757 or free text 4202 (to talk to a trained counsellor about how you are feeling or to ask any questions).
Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat.
