Music-based interventions at workplaces: a scoping review

TL;DR

This review explores how music-based interventions can reduce workplace stress and improve well-being, but more detailed studies are needed.

Contribution

The paper provides a scoping review of music-based interventions in workplaces, highlighting their potential and gaps in current research.

Findings

25 studies showed music interventions improved well-being, reduced stress, and increased productivity.

Physiological benefits like lower heart rate and blood pressure were observed in some studies.

Five studies found no significant effects, and most interventions were not well described or categorized.

Abstract

Work-related health challenges such as work stress-related disorders, like anxiety and depression, are prevalent occupational health issues that lead to disability and an increased risk of chronic diseases. Various workplace interventions are used to reduce these health problems, but their effectiveness remains uncertain. Recognized for their health benefits, music-based interventions have the potential to reduce stress, improve physiological parameters and enhance workplace health and well-being. However, the effects of these kinds of interventions in preventing work-related health problems have not been extensively studied.

This scoping review aimed to examine “What does the research literature tell about music-based interventions in the workplace?” Specifically, we synthesized the following: a) “What kinds of music-based interventions are used to reduce work-related stress and improve workplace performance and well-being?” and “Do studies indicate effects to reduce work-related stress and improve workplace performance and well-being?”.

This review revealed 25 studies showing potential effects of music-based interventions on well-being, stress reduction and productivity across various workplaces and 5 studies showing no effects. Music-based interventions, ranging from mindful music sessions to recreational music-making, consistently improved mood, reduced anxiety, and decreased stress levels. However, most study interventions have not been described in detail and are difficult to categorize. Objective outcome measures such as heart rate, blood pressure, and salivary amylase levels, indicate physiological benefits among workers. These findings suggest the potential and feasibility of music-based interventions in workplace settings.

Music-based interventions have been implemented to address occupational stress, enhancing both psychological and physiological health benefits. However, the limited research in occupational settings necessitates further studies to optimize the design and feasibility of music-based interventions tailored to workplace needs.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-025-05221-1.

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