Abstract

Abstract
Backgrounds/Aims: Amid rising global mental health challenges particularly depression, complementary approaches such as music therapy are gaining renewed attention for their accessibility, emotional impact, and alignment with patient-centered care. This study aimed to assess the utilization, perceived effectiveness, and barriers associated with music therapy among patients with depression at the psychiatric unit of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), Kano, Nigeria.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted involving 112 participants selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured, pretested questionnaire developed in line with the study objectives.
Results: Findings revealed that 86% of participants utilized music therapy as a complementary treatment for depression, reporting positive emotional outcomes such as relaxation, immersion, reduced anxiety, and emotional relief. Both active and receptive forms were employed, with Devine recitations emerging as the most preferred receptive modality. Music therapy was frequently combined with pharmacological treatment, and 86.61% of users experienced symptom relief and improved well-being. Importantly, no adverse effects were reported. However, several barriers to effectiveness were identified, including limited awareness, cultural misconceptions, insufficient institutional support, and a lack of trained music therapists. Despite these, participants expressed strong support for music therapy integration into standard care.
Conclusion: The study concludes that music therapy especially a spiritually relevant form is safe, culturally acceptable, and effective in enhancing depression management, and should be incorporated into holistic mental healthcare policy and practice.

Key words: Key words: Music Therapies, Patients, Complementary Therapies, Depressive disorder