10 Songs That Openly Address Mental Health Struggles

In the vast expanse of music, songs about 🎵 mental health struggles 🌱 provide not just solace, but a deep, meaningful connection for those enduring their own battles. Here, we delve into ten tracks that don't shy away from the tough conversations around mental health, offering listeners a reflective journey through pain, hope, and resilience.

1. Linkin Park - "Heavy"

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Linkin Park’s "Heavy" (🎵) is an anthem for those carrying an overwhelming burden. Released as part of their final album, the song delves into the weight of life's expectations and personal battles.

• Key lyrics: "It’s all to much to carry / Nothing better than bury it / Bet we're taking on heavy, see it’s not that scary."
• Important notes: The song reflects on personal battles but also serves as a beacon of hope for those feeling alone in their struggles.

2. Twenty One Pilots - "Fake You Out"

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"Fake You Out" by Twenty One Pilots is an exploration of mental fortitude and the effort to mask inner turmoil.

• Key lyrics: "But I can't help but feel that I am incomplete / If all I am is just the words I speak."
• Important notes: This track highlights the thin line between reality and the facade many of us put on.

3. Logic - "1-800-273-8255"

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Featuring the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline in its title, Logic's song opens up a conversation about suicidal thoughts.

• Key lyrics: "I've been praying for somebody to save me, save me / Momma, I've been crying 'cause things ain't how they supposed to be."
• Important notes: The track promotes seeking help, spotlighting the real crisis of mental health.

4. Ed Sheeran - "The A Team"

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"The A Team" by Ed Sheeran exposes the harsh reality of life and mental health struggles faced by a young woman dealing with substance abuse.

• Key lyrics: "White lips, pale face / Breathing in snowflakes / Burnt lungs, sour taste."
• Important notes: This song casts light on how systemic issues can exacerbate personal battles.

5. Bastille - "Fake it"

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"Fake it" from Bastille's repertoire speaks to the battle with anxiety and the pressure to appear fine when you're anything but.

• Key lyrics: "What is wrong with you always?" / “You’re so negative, you gotta change your attitude."
• Important notes: The song echoes the universal experience of feeling obliged to maintain a mask of happiness.

6. Bring Me The Horizon - "Sleepwalking"

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This track from Bring Me The Horizon's "Sempiternal" album addresses the struggle of feeling disconnected and the struggle of mental health battles.

• Key lyrics: "So much for the memories, you could at least pretend to care / Pretend you gave a damn."
• Important notes: It showcases the raw emotion tied to mental health, providing anthems for those who relate.

7. James Arthur - "Recovery"

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"Recovery" by James Arthur narrates his journey towards mental health recovery, showcasing vulnerability and resilience.

• Key lyrics: "I took some pills in Tokyo, tried my best to lie out low / Back at home, it would be good, but everything's still misunderstood."
• Important notes: This song resonates with many who are on their own path to recovery.

8. SZA - "Drew Barrymore"

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In "Drew Barrymore," SZA shares her insecurities and a longing for companionship, encapsulating the complexities of mental health.

• Key lyrics: "Why are you embarrassed? / I’m in love with being noticed."
• Important notes: The song highlights how public figures also face the same battles as everyone else.

9. Panic! at the Disco - "This Is Gospel"

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"This Is Gospel" by Panic! at the Disco speaks to the frustration of being stuck in one's own mental health battles.

• Key lyrics: "If you love me, let me go / If you love me, leave me alone."
• Important notes: It captures the sometimes contradictory emotions of needing help yet pushing away from it.

10. Halsey - "Manic"

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Halsey's "Manic" reflects on her bipolar disorder, providing an in-depth look into manic episodes and the quest for balance.

• Key lyrics: "But my one and only fear is that when my eyes close / I'm never gonna open them back up."
• Important notes: This album resonates with anyone who feels their mental health impacts their daily life and decisions.

The power of music lies not only in its ability to entertain but also in its capacity to echo the human experience. These songs give voice to the unspoken, creating a symphony of solidarity for those wrestling with mental health issues. Whether it’s through poetic lyrics, raw emotion, or candid confession, these tracks open up the floor for meaningful conversations, providing comfort, understanding, and a shared sense of struggle. As we listen, we remind ourselves that we are not alone in our battles, and there's always someone out there who understands. Music isn’t just sound; it's a lifeline.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Why do artists choose to address mental health in their music?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Artists often use their music to express personal experiences, including mental health struggles, as a form of therapy, connection, and advocacy. Addressing these topics can foster empathy, break down stigmas, and provide comfort to those who listen.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can listening to songs about mental health be beneficial?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Absolutely. Music can serve as a therapeutic tool, helping individuals feel understood, reduce feelings of isolation, and even find inspiration in the recovery journey shared by the artist.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can one support musicians who speak out about mental health?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>By engaging with their music, sharing their stories, and advocating for mental health awareness, listeners can support artists. Purchasing their music, attending their concerts, and discussing their themes publicly can also promote their message.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What other forms of media address mental health issues?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Apart from music, TV shows, movies, literature, and even video games often tackle mental health issues, providing a broad spectrum of narratives and perspectives.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Where can I find more music about mental health?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Streaming services have playlists dedicated to mental health themes, and numerous artists openly discuss these issues, making their work searchable through terms related to mental health struggles.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>