Scientists Find Music Therapy Reduces Stress for ICU Patients
New research presented at American College of Cardiology - Latin America 2025 suggests that music therapy may improve outcomes for patients in cardiac intensive care units (ICUs). A team from the University of Guanajuato in León, Mexico, found that music therapy was linked to lower heart rate, reduced blood pressure, and fewer patient–ventilator asynchronies when added to standard medical care.
Music Therapy as a Non-Pharmacological Tool
Music therapy is the clinical use of music and its elements to support health and well-being. Guided by trained professionals, it is a non-pharmacological and non-invasive approach that can reduce stress and improve patient comfort. In critical care, this method is recognized by the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) as part of the standard of care for critically ill patients. Its appeal lies in its safety, low cost, and ability to complement conventional treatments.
Study Design and Participants
The study was carried out as an open-label randomized trial involving 24 adult patients admitted to a hospital cardiac ICU between July and September 2024. All patients were alert, able to communicate, and had no hearing impairments. Most were admitted with ischemic heart disease, and the average age was 62 years. Nearly all participants were men.
Patients were divided into two groups. One group received standard care alone, while the other group received standard care plus music therapy. Those in the music therapy group listened to a melody at 15 decibels for 45 minutes each day over the course of five days. Researchers then measured changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and ventilator performance.
Results of the Trial
At the end of the five-day period, patients in the music therapy group showed improvements across multiple areas compared to those who only received standard care. Their heart rates were lower, their systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased, and their patient–ventilator asynchronies were reduced. These outcomes indicate that music therapy can help ease the body’s stress responses during critical treatment.
Photo Credit: FreePik
Why These Results Matter
Stabilizing vital signs and reducing stress are central goals in cardiac intensive care. While medications remain essential, the study shows that music therapy can serve as a valuable complement. Its effectiveness without medical side effects makes it a practical choice for hospitals looking to improve both patient outcomes and the overall care experience.
Broader Implications for Music and Medicine
The findings presented in Mexico City add to the growing evidence that music can play a direct role in healthcare. Beyond its cultural and emotional value, music is being recognized as a therapeutic tool with measurable effects on the body. As further research continues, the use of music therapy in ICUs may expand, offering patients additional support during some of the most stressful and critical moments of treatment.
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