Does Listening to Sad Songs Actually Make Us Feel Better

The Psychology Behind Sad Songs
Taruffi and Koelsch's study called participants to recall the emotions they usually experience when listening to sad music. Such feelings could be nostalgia, sadness, wonder, and even power. Interestingly, the topmost emotion reported by people was not sadness- it was nostalgia.

This was followed by feelings of peacefulness and tenderness, painting a much more complex picture that goes beyond simply sorrow and despair. It turns out, the feelings triggered by sad songs often fall under the "sublime" category- emotions that may feel heavy but are always tinged with beauty.

Sad Songs as Emotional Rewards
The study also found out that people tend to turn to sad music to experience specific emotional rewards. Think of it this way: a sad song acts like your friend who gets you- someone who has been exactly where you are. When you listen to these songs, it lets you connect with your emotions without feeling vulnerable or judged. Instead of increasing your sadness, it gives you a release. It feels like letting out a big sigh.

In fact, research also suggests that sad songs promote skills like empathy, imagination, and emotional regulation. So, when you feel low, listening to something that matches your mood helps you better process your feelings in a healthy way, giving you a small but meaningful boost. For many people, this effect is like a form of music therapy, offering you an accessible way of experiencing relief and emotional regulation outside the boundaries of formal counselling sessions.