During stressful situations, some people reach for headphones the way others reach for painkillers to feel better.
In a country where stress has become part of the soundtrack of life, people are increasingly turning to music for comfort even as they admit that the wrong song can worsen anxiety instead of easing it.
For Lilongwe-based lady, Taniah Lonely Mbewe, music has long been her refuge through heartbreaks, pressure and long days. But she has learned that not every melody brings relief.
“Yes, music really helps to relieve stress, but sometimes it worsens the situation, depending on the kind of music you’re listening to,” Mbewe said
When she needs peace, she reaches for old school hits, especially Billy Kaunda’s Mwapindulanji? and gospel melodies. During a painful breakup, she found healing in relatable songs knowing she was not alone in her struggle.
Similarly, Nalikule College of Education student Prince Nangoma said music became his lifeline at one of the lowest points of his life. After performing poorly in his Malawi School Certificate of Education(MSCE) examinations, he watched his friends advance to university. Stress and disappointment became his daily reality.
“I used to listen to Azayankha by Namasalima Singers every day. It soothed me, kept me calm, and helped me focus again, “he said.
Now in second year, Nangoma credits part of his turnaround to the emotional strength music provided but warns that certain songs can pull you down rather than lift your mood.
Musicians themselves understand the responsibility that comes with crafting sounds that influence people’s emotions.
Afro-soul artist Happy Jumbe aka Rashley Mw, known for the soft and soothing song Nafe, said he deliberately composes music that promotes peace.
“I’m aware that music can be healing. Smooth melodies, gentle beats and comforting lyrics help people feel lighter. I frequently receive messages from fans who say my music helps them cope with stress, confirming the emotional impact of his choices,” he said.
Science agrees that music relieves stress but also cautions.
According to psychologist Florah Sewa, music directly affects the brain’s stress system. Calming sounds slow the heartbeat, regulate breathing and lower the stress hormone called cortisol. She warns that not all music has this effect
“Music sends signals to the brain that say, ‘You’re safe, slow down. Fast-paced, loud or emotionally triggering songs can increase anxiety, especially when someone is already overwhelmed,” she said.
Sewa added that music’s power lies not only in its emotional connection but in its convenience.
“It meets you where you are while walking, cooking, resting or even crying. You do not need training or effort. That’s why it is such a powerful stress reliever,” she said.
Still, Sewa encourages listeners to be conscious of what they choose to play when they are stressed.
Across the country, from minibus commuters to university students and office workers, music is becoming a daily tool for managing emotional pressure. It soothes, reassures and motivates yet it can also ignite forgotten pain or heighten tension when the playlist takes a wrong turn.
In a world where stress is rising and mental-health support remains limited, music stands out as both a gentle healer and a subtle trigger. The challenge and the beauty is learning which songs to lean on, and which ones to ignore. In Malawi today, the right melody can be medicine.
