10 Songs to Help on 'Bad' Mental Health Days
Editor’s note: If you experience suicidal thoughts, the following post could be potentially triggering. You can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting “START” to 741-741.
We all have those “bad days” — days where the protection of sheets and blankets seems like the safest place to be, like nothing bad can happen if I remain ensconced among the soft cotton and feather quilt.
They are days where my neck and shoulders ache from tension and I feel like my jaw is going to explode right off the sides of my face. Days when every face seems like judgment day and every whisper sounds like an accusation, a guilty verdict. Days when every noise sounds like impending doom and destruction. Days when nothing seems to go right and I have to concentrate on breathing and taking it slow. One step at a time. One foot in front of the next.
On days like these, I find comfort and release in music … sometimes. When nothing else is there for me, these songs help pull me through.
1. “Break On Me” by Keith Urban
This song is an actual emotional release, perfectly describing “those days.” It feels like a hug.
2. “How Not To” by Dan + Shay
This song is about recovery and endurance through strength and love. It helps me to know all is not lost and better days are ahead.
3. “Keep Your Head Up” by Andy Grammer
This is a happy beat — just a small reminder to “keep your head up” through the tough days.
4. “Humble and Kind” by Tim McGraw
Just a reminder there a good people in the world.
5. “Why” by Rascal Flatts
This is a very emotional one and very close to my heart. Rascal Flatts sing about the tragedy of suicide and the terrible aftermath.
6. “Let It Hurt” by Rascal Flatts
Here is another emotional release. Take all that pain and “let it hurt, let it bleed.” I’ve cried through this song countless times and felt better afterward. Essentially about bullying but can really take on any meaning.
7. “Stand By You” by Rachel Platten
This one is a reminder you have your “people” and they won’t leave you. The music is uplifting and the words are inspiring.
8. “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten
This song is empowering. Keep fighting!
9. “Gravity” by Sarah Bareille
I like this song because it can be interpreted in countless ways. It’s about whatever is pulling you into a negative gravity. The music is enchanting and I find it to be eye-opening and uplifting.
10. “Here Comes Goodbye” by Rascal Flatts
This last one is one of my favorites. It does have a bit of a morbid twist, but at the same time, it shows love and afterlife. There are sadness and comfort in the lyrics. The music is poignant and flows over you.
Music like this has saved me many times. I am not alone. Neither are you.
If you or someone you know needs help, visit our suicide prevention resources page.
If you need support right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, the Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 or text “START” to 741-741.
We want to hear your story. Become a Mighty contributor here.
Unsplash photo via Sai Kiran Anagani