Music has been shown to have healing powers, this we know. But we know nothing has been shown to cure PTSD, yet. Music however engages the brain in ways that help with PTSD.
What we know is that music has an incredible influence on emotions and memory. With that in mind many studies have been done on use of music with PTSD. The overwhelming results have been that music is one of the most effective coping methods we have.
The key here is that the music must be positive to the person listening, meaning no music that brings up negative thoughts or emotions for the person. This is of course subjective.
On the flip side, music that brings up negative emotions or memories can be very destructive with PTSD. Again this is very subjective. The wrong music can send someone with PTSD spiraling downward.
So if you are helping someone with PTSD, understand that what they see as positive and helpful music may not be the same as what you consider to be positive music. Nearly all people suffering with PTSD use music as a coping method. I have met people with PTSD who use music that I consider to be very dark, however, it works for them.
So we know that listening helps and we know tastes vary from person to person. But, what about creation of music? The answer is an overwhelming yes. Any form of creation of music is linked to helping with PTSD. From writing music to playing an instrument is seen to be helpful. So if you have PTSD or if have someone in your life who does, this may be a direction to go.
The key takeaway here is that no matter the situation music may help. Music truly is a universal language, and it is language that has the power of healing.