Comparison Between the Use of Music and Relaxation Training on Craving Alcohol in Patients With Alcohol Dependence Syndrome: A Pilot Study

Craving for alcohol produces an aversive, uncomfortable state, with autonomic arousal similar to that in anxiety disorders, and is the main factor leading to relapse. Music has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress levels. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) is the intervention of choice for treatment of anxiety and related syndromes. This study aimed to compare efficacy of PMR and music in reducing levels of alcohol craving and increasing perceived ability to cope with the craving. The intervention was conducted over 5 days with two randomised group of 10 patients each. The patients were assigned to either group based on randomizer sequencing. Initial motivation was assessed before beginning the study. Measures of craving level and coping were collected on Day 1, 3 and 5. Single question exit interview was conducted to understand subjective perception of the patients regarding the techniques. Significant difference was found in coping levels through use of PMR (p = 0.01), and subjective reduction in craving levels was reported by patients in the music group, though this was not statistically significant. Thus, PMR may be used as an adjunct to increase coping abilities in patients with alcohol dependence, while music may be a useful tool to reduce craving but cannot be conclusively commented upon without further research.