The music that saves usThe music that saves us
All In The Mind
When bad things happen, do you berate yourself or treat yourself with compassion? Do you journal, meditate, or listen to music? Growing up, Sabrina McKenzie always turned to music to help her through her worst moments. As she got older and began studying psychology, she realised what she felt when she listened to sad or angry songs ... was self-compassion. In the field of positive psychology there’s plenty of research on how journalling and meditation can cultivate self-compassion (and plenty of research suggesting self-compassionate people are more mentally and physically healthy). But Sabrina was shocked to learn there was no research on whether music could cultivate self-compassion. She decided to change that. Today: the songs that saved Sabrina, and the novel research looking for a link between music and self-compassion. This episode touches on the topic of sexual abuse, please take care while listening. Guest: Sabrina McKenzie Associate Lecturer in music PhD candidate in music psychology University of Melbourne, Melbourne Conservatorium of Music Credits: Presenter/producer: Sana Qadar Senior producer: James Bullen Producer: Rose Kerr Sound engineer: Roi Huberman You can catch up on more episodes of the All in the Mind podcast with journalist and presenter Sana Qadar, exploring the psychology of topics like stress, memory, communication and relationships on the ABC Listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. Music to listen to: Why Trust You - Alice Cooper Now I Can Dance - Tina Arena This Is Me (Official Audio) — The Greatest Showman Cast "Saying Goodbye" — Ondara More information: Self-compassion as a predictor of interleukin-6 response to acute psychosocial stress A Systematic Review on Mediation Studies of Self-Compassion and Physical Health Outcomes in Non-Clinical Adult Populations Exploring the role of music listening in cultivating self-compassion Support: Lifeline 13 11 14
29:36•29 Nov 2025
Music as Medicine: Sabrina McKenzie's Healing Journey
Episode Overview
- Music can foster self-compassion similar to meditation and journaling.
- 81% of study participants felt self-compassion from listening to music.
- Different genres impact individuals uniquely; preferences vary widely.
- Music acts as a social surrogate, offering comfort during solitary moments.
- Sabrina aims to validate music as a tool for mental health improvement.
“"Music was the only thing that got me. It was the only thing that understood me."”
Ever wondered how music can be a lifeline during tough times? Dive into Sabrina McKenzie's story as she shares her journey of finding solace and self-compassion through the power of music. Growing up amidst childhood abuse and trauma, Sabrina turned to music as her refuge, with artists like Alice Cooper and Whitney Houston providing a comforting soundtrack to her struggles.
Now a PhD researcher in music psychology, Sabrina is exploring how everyday music might foster self-compassion, potentially offering a new avenue for mental health improvement. Sabrina's research delves into whether music can cultivate self-compassion in the same way meditation and journaling do. Her studies show that 81% of participants experienced self-compassion from listening to music during the COVID-19 lockdowns.
Through heartwarming anecdotes, she illustrates how songs have helped her navigate personal loss and emotional pain, revealing music as a potential social surrogate during solitary moments. This episode also touches on the diversity in musical preferences and how different genres can uniquely impact individuals. From heavy metal to soulful ballads, Sabrina uncovers the varied ways people use music to manage emotions and build resilience.
As Sabrina continues her groundbreaking research, she hopes to establish music as a viable tool for self-compassion, comparable to traditional practices like meditation. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of music, encouraging listeners to explore their own musical paths to healing. Curious about how music can be more than just entertainment? Discover Sabrina's insights and consider what tunes might support your own journey toward self-compassion.
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