I generally can view symptoms as external to myself by diving deep down. I guess for me it's about finding a place of inner peace away from voices or other external forces where I can just... be.It's extremely interesting to me that music helps you rise above those issues because for me it's pretty much the opposite. I dive deeper and deeper mentally - sometimes that uncovers horrors and pain - but it's usually incredibly cathartic for me.
I've also been meditating for many years and the main benefit (I can actually feel) is just that escape from the external distractions. It's such a massive relief to get away from the oppressive assault on your senses and your attention in particular. It's a weird contradiction that music helps me do the same too, since it's engaging your sense of hearing, but I think sound is particularly subtle; more than anything else.