10 Empowering Songs About Mental Health That Everyone Should Listen To

Introduction

Music is a powerful tool that can lift our mood, calm our nerves, and even help us process difficult emotions. It’s no wonder that many musicians have created songs that deal with mental health issues, from anxiety and depression to addiction and trauma. In this article, we’ll share 10 empowering songs about mental health that everyone should listen to.

1. “Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger” is an upbeat anthem that encourages listeners to rise above difficult situations and come out the other side stronger. The song’s lyrics speak to the idea that challenges can be opportunities for growth, and that we have the strength within us to overcome them: “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger / Stand a little taller / Doesn’t mean I’m lonely when I’m alone.”

2. “The Middle” by Zedd, Maren Morris, Grey

“The Middle” is a collaboration between Zedd, Maren Morris, and Grey that explores the feeling of being stuck in a rut and wondering if things will ever get better. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus (“Why don’t you just meet me in the middle? / I’m losing my mind just a little”) make it an empowering reminder that even when we feel lost or overwhelmed, there’s always a way to move forward.

3. “1-800-273-8255” by Logic ft. Alessia Cara, Khalid

Named after the phone number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, “1-800-273-8255” is a powerful song that addresses suicidal thoughts and mental health struggles head-on. Logic’s frank, vulnerable lyrics (“I don’t wanna be alive, I just wanna die today / I just wanna die / And let me tell you why”) are balanced by a hopeful chorus that promises that things can get better: “I want you to be alive / You don’t gotta die today.”

4. “Brave” by Sara Bareilles

In “Brave,” Sara Bareilles encourages listeners to speak up and be themselves, even when it’s scary or uncomfortable. The song’s catchy melody and empowering lyrics (“Say what you wanna say / And let the words fall out / Honestly I wanna see you be brave”) make it an instant mood booster that can help us feel more confident and assertive.

5. “Everybody Hurts” by R.E.M.

R.E.M.’s “Everybody Hurts” is a timeless classic that reminds us that we’re not alone in our struggles. The song’s slow, mournful melody and empathetic lyrics (“Don’t let yourself go, ’cause everybody cries / And everybody hurts sometimes”) can help us feel seen and understood when we’re going through a tough time.

6. “Not Afraid” by Eminem

In “Not Afraid,” Eminem speaks candidly about his struggles with addiction and overcoming fear. The song’s powerful chorus (“I’m not afraid to take a stand / Everybody come take my hand / We’ll walk this road together, through the storm”) is a rallying cry for anyone who’s facing adversity and needs a reminder that they’re capable of overcoming it.

7. “Shake It Out” by Florence + The Machine

“Shake It Out” by Florence + The Machine is an uplifting, anthemic song that encourages us to let go of our past mistakes and move forward with a sense of freedom and renewal. The song’s fantastical lyrics (“And it’s hard to dance with a devil on your back / So shake him off”) are paired with a soaring melody that can make us feel like we’re capable of overcoming anything.

8. “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus’s “The Climb” is a classic coming-of-age anthem that encourages listeners to pursue their dreams and never give up, no matter how daunting the journey may seem. The song’s inspiring lyrics (“There’s always gonna be another mountain / I’m always gonna wanna make it move / Always gonna be a uphill battle”) are paired with a catchy melody that can lift our mood and energize us when we’re feeling stuck.

9. “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child

In “Survivor,” Destiny’s Child celebrates their own resilience and encourages listeners to embrace their strength and power. The song’s fierce lyrics (“I’m not gonna give up, I’m not gonna stop / I’m gonna work harder, I’m a survivor”) are paired with an upbeat melody that can make us feel like we’re capable of overcoming anything.

10. “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten

Rachel Platten’s “Fight Song” is a rousing, feel-good anthem that encourages listeners to stand up for themselves and never give up. The song’s uplifting lyrics (“This is my fight song / Take back my life song / Prove I’m alright song”) are paired with a catchy melody that can lift our mood and make us feel like we’re capable of anything.

Conclusion

Music has the power to inspire us, motivate us, and help us process difficult emotions. These 10 empowering songs about mental health can serve as a reminder that we’re not alone in our struggles, and that we have the strength within us to overcome any challenge. Whether you’re feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just in need of a pick-me-up, these songs are sure to lift your mood and give you the motivation you need to keep going.

Speech tips:

Please note that any statements involving politics will not be approved.