Released on: January 17, 2008, 10:05 pm

Press Release Author: Ontario Music Society

Industry: Education

Press Release Summary: Music instruction far safer and equally effective in
providing mental relief with risk of addiction and dangerous side effects

Press Release Body: TORONTO - Today, Johnathan Rigby the newly-elected Chairman of
the OMS urged the public to try music instead of medication in dealing with bouts of
depression and common stress created from the daily pressures of life. \"Whether it\'s
the scary economy, health issues, work deadlines, or just the noisy kids getting on
your nerves, a few music lessons can really help a person unwind and stave off
depression\" said Rigby, who went on to add, \"Stress and depression are destructive
forces that create harmful and sometimes contagious tensions at home and work. We
say and do dumb things under stress that we later regret, often hurting loved ones,
relatives and friends. Too many people are so quick to turn to powerful medications
for a quick fix, but soon find themselves addicted to the \"feel-good\" pills that are
nothing more than an expensive band-aid that often carry dangerous side-effects.\"

Citing medical research studies from Sweden, Korea, and UCLA, Rigby suggested that
Music lessons provides the same stress relief as medications without masking the
realities of life with drugs, and by providing a permanent long-term solution. \"The
medical experts agree that next to physical exercise, playing music or singing is
the next best stress and depression therapy\" said Riggs. \"For people who don\'t have
the time nor money to work out in a crowded, sweaty gym, I recommend playing some
melodies or singing a few songs which is also a lot more fun. We don\'t advocate that
people abandon their medication without first consulting with their doctors, but we
do believe that most people can be gradually weened off mood-altering drugs, with
mood-altering music.\"

A recent Health Canada poll indicates that at least 60% of Canadians admit suffering
from either stress or depression, so the problem is quite common and bound to grow
even more severe as economic conditions worsen. \"Is it merely a coincidence that the
most content and happy people in the world live in South Korea and Sweden where
almost 45% of the population plays at least one musical instrument?\" asks Rigby. It
is interesting to note that these two countries also have two of the lowest suicide
rates in the world as well.

The OMS urges anyone who has a friend or relative overwhelmed by stress or beaten
down by the blues to get them to a music school. After just three or four lessons
the difference in personal disposition is usually amazing. \"And compared to the
cost of current anti-depressants, a $20 music lesson once a week is probably a nice
bargain\"
concluded Rigby.

A handful of music schools and academies in Ontario actual provide music therapy
programs found to be both effective and affordable by the OMS which is glad to make
referrals to anyone interested in learning more about Music Therapy. Those
interested can call 647-295-4647 or send the OMS an email at
OntarioMusicSocietyatmail.org.

Web Site: http://www.informationclearinghouse.com

Contact Details: Ontario Music Society
117 Lakeshore Road East
Suite 339
Toronto, ON
L5G-4T6