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Video · Chris / Inside view

How Music Helps With Autistic Emotional Regulation

Chris explains how different kinds of music help him process anger, low moods, and difficult emotions—and why a personalized playlist can provide a practical outlet for autistic self-expression and regulation.

  • Autistic identity / Acceptance, Interests / Learning, Mental health / Emotions, Sensory experience
  • All audiences
  • 2:44
  • Free resource
  • Published August 25, 2026
Content note

Discusses anger, emotional distress, low mood and depression, intense music, and personal coping strategies. Describes lived experience, not medical treatment or advice.

Accessible text version

Full transcript

Have you ever wondered why someone responds so strongly when listening to music? I want to talk about the therapeutic properties of music and how it can help tame intense anger. Basically, music can be one of the most effective ways to process emotions. It can be amazing for autistic people and people with ADHD, especially when we need help making sense of what we are feeling. When I am angry or upset, I listen to intense music, sometimes music with screaming. Somehow, even though I do not entirely know why, it helps me release the anger vicariously. It helps me let go of negative feelings without having to do anything destructive myself. I do not have to break things or throw pillows. I can express those feelings through the music instead. Something similar happens when I am feeling depressed. I might listen to a band like Linkin Park, and it gives those difficult feelings somewhere to go. I can experience and release the emotion through music. Different kinds of music can serve different purposes. Something that helps one angry or upset person may not help someone else. What matters is finding music that genuinely works for the individual. Many children and adults can benefit from having music they connect with. Introduce your kids to different kinds of music and help them discover what they enjoy. I especially enjoy older music from the 1990s and early 2000s. If you prefer contemporary music, explore underground artists too. There is a huge amount of interesting music beyond the mainstream. In my opinion, music can be a powerful personal tool for self-expression and emotional regulation.
About this content

Decoding Divergent shares lived experience and general educational information. It is not medical, mental-health, legal, or educational advice and is not a substitute for qualified professional support.