6 Twenty One Pilots Songs That Relate to Mental Health

Music has always been an outlet for me. From Macklemore to Demi Lovato to Mumford & Sons and everything in between, there’s no shortage of artists who have addressed mental health themes in their music and careers. One of my favorites is twenty one pilots, a group from Ohio that mixes different styles of music with poetry-based lyrics to tackle what it means to be alive. Here are some lyrics from six of their songs that you, like me, might be able to relate to:

1. “Migraine“

Lyrics: “Am I the only one I know, Waging my wars behind my face and above my throat? Shadows will scream that I’m alone, But I know, we’ve made it this far, kid.”

How It Relates: This song is one of my favorites from this group because of how much it covers in just four minutes. People with mental illness often feel like they’re alone at war with their own mind. Most importantly, though, I love how this song emphasizes hope and making it through.

2. “The Run And Go”

Lyrics: “Don’t wanna call you in the nighttime. Don’t wanna give you all my pieces. Don’t wanna hand you all my trouble. Don’t wanna give you all my demons. You’ll have to watch me struggle From several rooms away. But tonight I’ll need you to stay.”

How It Relates: I find myself listening to this song on repeat because of how catchy and relatable it is. It can be hard to reach out to people, but sometimes you have to. Leaning on your support system and just having someone there in the worst moments can make all the difference, or at least prevent you from making risky choices.

3. “Ride”

Lyrics: “I just wanna stay in the sun where I find. I know it’s hard sometimes. Pieces of peace in the sun’s peace of mind. I know it’s hard sometimes.”

How It Relates: This is one of twenty one pilots’ more popular songs, and for good reason! Committing to your mental health can be difficult, especially when you’re “thinking too much.” It’s important to slow down, enjoy, and remember the good parts.

4. “The Judge”

Lyrics: “But I’m not good with directions, And I hide behind my mouth. I’m a pro at imperfections, And I’m best friends with my doubt, And now that my mind’s out, And now I hear it clear and loud, I’m thinking, ‘Wow, I probably should’ve stayed inside my house.’”

How It Relates: Everyone has insecurities, but these can be magnified when you’re struggling with mental health. These lyrics put those feelings into words and help us relate to others.

5. “We Don’t Believe What’s On TV”

Lyrics: “I don’t care what’s in your hair, I just wanna know what’s on your mind.”

How It Relates: I’ve met some of the most genuine people I know because of my experiences with mental health. They have taught me to become a more honest, open person, and I’m grateful to be able to relate to people more fully as a result.

6. “Hometown”

Lyrics: “A shadow tilts its head at me. Spirits in the dark are waiting. I won’t let them win, go quietly I won’t let them win, go quietly.”

How It Relates: Mental illness is a constant battle with triggers and relapses always waiting for you to let them in. But, music from groups like twenty one pilots can be a comfort and powerful coping skill to add to your toolbox as you continue on your journey with mental health.

What songs, lyrics, or bands would you add?

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