Music as mental Health Mirror: Artists Confront Anxiety and Trauma
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A surge of new music is directly addressing mental health,reflecting a growing openness and willingness to explore these complex issues. Released in June, Rhode Island singer-songwriter Lainey Dionne’s song ”wired” and Alyssa Haze’s album “MIND of MINE” offer notably poignant examples of this trend, resonating with listeners grappling with anxiety and trauma.
Lainey Dionne’s “wired” is a country-infused ballad that delves into teh experience of social anxiety. the lyrics vividly depict the physical and emotional toll of constant self-consciousness: “I flush red every time I get embarrassed over somthing I said/It’s obvious how awkward I get/I will cringe untill I go to bed.”
Dionne’s work distinguishes itself from casual use of the term “anxiety,” rather portraying the debilitating reality of a mental illness where everyday situations trigger intense fear and distress. She sings of a “tsunami of thoughts” and a feeling of losing control, articulating the internal struggle with stark honesty: “I can’t function like a human/I panic over things I shouldn’t … I don’t own my mind.”
Did You Know? Approximately one in five U.S.adults experience mental illness each year [[1]].
The song’s subdued vocals and intentional pacing underscore the exhaustion that accompanies battling one’s own mind, even with coping mechanisms in place. “Wired” is currently available on all major music streaming platforms.
“Inside” Offers a Raw Look at Inpatient Mental Healthcare
Uxbridge singer-songwriter Alyssa Haze’s album, ”MIND of MINE,” released earlier this year, tackles mental health challenges with unflinching honesty. The track “Inside” provides a particularly visceral account of inpatient treatment.
The song opens with unsettling soundscapes and lyrics that hint at memory loss and suicidal ideation: “Don’t remember yesterday/Blacked-out days inside my brain/Last I can recall, I was high/Higher than the stars in the sky, they were sure I’d take my life/Delusional thoughts, they’ve come alive.” The chorus introduces a sense of confinement and surveillance,culminating in the stark realization that the narrator is hospitalized.
Haze’s lyrics capture the complex emotions surrounding inpatient care, acknowledging the range of experiences-from gratitude to resentment-frequently enough felt by patients. She portrays a feeling of isolation and scrutiny: ”Windows watching you through the night/Strip all your clothing, nothing will pass them by/Time ticks by a bit slower while you’re stuck writing letters inside.”
Pro Tip: If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health,resources are available.The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers support and information at https://www.nami.org/.
“Inside” is available for streaming on all major music platforms.
| Artist | Song/Album | Key Themes | Release Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lainey Dionne | “wired” | Social Anxiety, Internal Struggle | June 2025 |
| Alyssa haze | “MIND of MINE” (album), “Inside” | Inpatient Mental Healthcare, Trauma, Isolation | 2025 |
What role do you think music plays in destigmatizing mental health conversations?
How can artists responsibly portray mental health struggles in their work?
The Rising Tide of Mental Health Awareness
The increased portrayal of mental health in music reflects a broader cultural shift toward greater awareness and acceptance. The COVID-19 pandemic, beginning in 2020, significantly exacerbated mental health challenges globally, prompting more open conversations and a demand for relatable artistic expression. According to the World Health Association, mental health is “an integral part of health; indeed, there is no health without mental health” [[3]]. This trend is not limited to these two artists; numerous musicians across genres are now incorporating themes of anxiety, depression, and trauma into their work, creating a powerful and supportive community for listeners.
frequently Asked Questions About Mental Health and Music
- What is social anxiety? Social anxiety is a mental health condition involving intense fear of social situations, leading to avoidance and significant distress.
- can music therapy help with mental health? Yes, music therapy is a recognized therapeutic approach that uses music to address emotional, cognitive, and social needs.
- What are the signs of a mental health crisis? Signs include suicidal thoughts, self-harm, extreme mood swings, and withdrawal from social activities.
- Where can I find help for mental health? Resources include the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the Mental Health America (MHA), and your local healthcare provider.
- Is it okay to talk about my mental health? Absolutely. Talking about your mental health is a sign of strength and can help reduce stigma.
We hope these songs provide comfort and validation to those navigating their own mental health journeys. If you connected with these artists’ stories, please share this article with your network and join the conversation. Your voice matters.
