Scientists prove that music makes people feel less alone

By Stephen Beech

Music really is good company - because it triggers thoughts of connection, warmth and companionship, according to new research.

The study has proved for the first time empirically that music reduces feelings of loneliness by enabling imagined social interactions.

The findings showed that music increases the strength of imagination and facilitates mental imagery of "elaborate" narratives - whether celebrating or grieving.

Researchers say their findings provide an evidence-based basis for the use of music to support clinical settings that use mental imagery techniques, as well as creative uses for musicians.

Study leader Dr Steffen Herff, a cognitive neuroscientist at the University of Sydney, Australia , said: “Music appears to act as a catalyst for social ima