It turns out that music can have measurable effects on specific parts of our brains – stirring emotion and spurring changes that can cause powerful sensations and physical reactions. An established health professional called a music therapist harnesses these special properties of music as part of comprehensive management plans for people living with central nervous system (CNS) diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS). 

Through an initiative called MS in Harmony, Bristol Myers Squibb and the American Music Therapy Association are partnering with award-winning actor, singer and songwriter Ben Platt (“The Politician,” “Dear Evan Hansen”) and his sister-in-law Courtney, a dancer, choreographer and actor (“So You Think You Can Dance,” “Glee,” “VH1’s Hit The Floor,” “The Simpsons”) who lives with relapsing MS, to encourage people living with MS to give this unique, and fun, intervention a try.

“Multiple sclerosis interferes with communication between the mind and the body. With educational content and videos of music therapy techniques specifically designed for people living with multiple sclerosis, MS in Harmony is a first-of its-kind offering that aims to help patients and their care partners achieve mind-body harmony through music therapy,” said Tina Deignan, senior vice president and U.S. business unit head for Immunology at Bristol Myers Squibb. 

Research suggests that music therapy may be beneficial in terms of the impact it has on both physical and mental function in people living with MS. It may also help address some of the emotional challenges associated with the disease, including depression, low self-esteem and anxiety. 

“Dance is my passion and it has become my career,” said Courtney Platt. “As someone living with relapsing multiple sclerosis, I’ve found amazing clarity and acceptance in understanding how the disease is affecting my mind and body. I’m super excited to have another tool in music therapy to help manage my multiple sclerosis.”

Music therapy can include a wide spectrum of exercises – everything from writing and singing songs and playing music, to listening to music and creating playlists.

The Platts join the other MS in Harmony partners in encouraging everyone to visit MSinHarmony.com and follow @MSinHarmony on Instagram to learn more and experience the potential effect of music therapy today.

“Our guiding vision at Bristol Myers Squibb is to transform patients’ lives through science, and that includes non-conventional treatment and support strategies, too. We’re thrilled to have the chance to make music therapy informed exercises more accessible to the multiple sclerosis community through this unique initiative,” added Deignan.