Music therapy for adults with autoimmune disease and a co-morbid mood disorder: A feasibility study

Introduction Approximately 50 million people in the United States are diagnosed with autoimmune diseases (AD), and at least 55% of individuals also experience comorbid mood disorders associated with the challenges associated with living with these conditions. Resource-oriented music therapy may provide adults with AD with a holistic and asset-building protocol to treatment, one that involves a collaborative and flexible approach, while still maintaining consistency.Method Six individuals with AD and a mood disorder were recruited for this feasibility study. The study aimed to capture the following: (1) To evaluate the feasibility of recruitment and retention for a small cohort of participants, (2) To evaluate the participants’ experiences of the study procedures and music therapy, (3) To assess the suitability of the outcome measures and potential effectiveness of music therapy. Participants engaged in a pretest questionnaire evaluating their depression, anxiety, and quality of life, followed by eight music therapy treatment sessions, followed by a posttest questionnaire and an interview.Results All participants completed all stages of the research protocol. The five themes that emerged from the interviews were: (a) experience participating in the study, (b) usefulness of music therapy, (c) therapist and therapeutic approach, (d) perceived takeaways from participation, and (e) research logistics.Discussion The results indicate that resource-oriented music therapy may be a beneficial form of treatment for adults with AD and mood disorders based on participants’ evaluations of music therapy and their engagement with the research. Further research and clinical practice are warranted.