We are not certain as to how the use of music in medicine started. Written history states that in Iraq, music was used on magic and medicine. In Greece, it is used during therapies for emotionally disturbed individuals. In general hospital treatment, the first use of music was through a phonograph which was used to distract patient from the terrors of undergoing an operation. Studies also showed that listening to music reduced vomiting among cancer patients. In gynecology and childbirth, the use of overhead music reduced anxiety and pain among patients. In pediatric care, it was found out that children 1 year old and younger had reduced behavioral distress when listening to live music.

Stress happens when a person is in a situation where it is extremely hard for his mind to perform effectively. When a person is stressed, he gets nervous, his heart rate increases, he sweats profusely, he has very low immune system, his body’s cholesterol increases, and worse, his brain cells may even be damaged. In music therapy, the kind of music to use is a personal choice. Background music may be appealing to some while some would choose to sing to the top of their lungs. The application of music as a stress buster is not contained in a hospital. Most people may not be aware of it but the on hold music they hear when they call a business telephone is an effective business tool as it enhances a person’s good mood therefore resulting in a smooth conversation. Music is an effective stress buster as it is fun and very accessible in this era of diverse musical devices. Making music is also a good way to express emotions, therefore relieving a person from stress and depression. Music, therefore, is not just for people who are into dancing or clubbing but is even more useful to people who are undergoing difficult times in their life.