29 Songs about Mental Health to Comfort You on Hard Days

Music has always been a powerful tool to uplift our mood and heal our souls. It is no surprise that songs about mental health have gained immense popularity in recent times, with people seeking comfort and solace in the lyrics and melodies that speak to their struggles.

Mental health issues affect millions of people around the world, and listening to songs that address these issues can help in coping with difficult emotions and experiences. These songs come in various forms, from ballads to rap and hip-hop, and are often written by artists who have faced their own mental health challenges. They offer a message of hope, empathy, and understanding, reminding listeners that they are not alone in their struggles.

Some songs focus on specific mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, while others speak to the overall challenges of managing mental health. In addition to their therapeutic value, these songs also play a crucial role in raising awareness about mental health and reducing stigma around mental illness. They encourage listeners to seek help and support, and provide a platform for open discussions about mental health.

In this article, we will explore some of the most popular and impactful songs about mental health, their themes and messages, and how they can help to comfort and inspire us on hard days.

1. 1-800-273-8255 – Logic ft. Alessia Cara, Khalid

1-800-273-8255 is a powerful song that raises awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. The title of the song is actually the phone number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline in the United States. The song was released in 2017 and quickly became a hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The lyrics of the song tell the story of someone who is struggling with suicidal thoughts and is calling the Lifeline for help. Logic, Alessia Cara, and Khalid all deliver powerful vocals that capture the emotions of the person in crisis. The chorus, “I don’t wanna be alive, I just wanna die today,” is a poignant and heartbreaking reminder of the desperation that can accompany mental illness. Throughout the song, Logic emphasizes the message that help is available and encourages people to reach out for support. He also touches on the stigma surrounding mental health issues and how it can prevent people from seeking help. The line, “It’s the very first breath when your head’s been drowning underwater,” is a powerful metaphor for the feeling of suffocation that can come with mental illness.

2. In My Blood – Shawn Mendes

In My Blood is a song by Canadian singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes. The song was released in 2018 and quickly became a hit, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of being overwhelmed and struggling with anxiety. Mendes sings, “Help me, it’s like the walls are caving in / Sometimes I feel like giving up / But I just can’t / It isn’t in my blood.” The chorus is a powerful reminder that even when things are tough, we have the strength within us to keep going. The song has a powerful and emotional melody, with a driving drumbeat that adds to the sense of urgency in the lyrics. Mendes’ vocals are soulful and passionate, conveying the intensity of the emotions he is singing about. In My Blood is a powerful anthem for anyone who has struggled with anxiety or mental health issues. It emphasizes the message that even in our darkest moments, we have the strength within us to keep fighting. The song has resonated with audiences around the world, and has become an important part of the conversation around mental health and self-care.

3. Anxiety – Julia Michaels ft. Selena Gomez

Anxiety is a collaboration between Julia Michaels and Selena Gomez that was released in 2019. The song is an honest and vulnerable exploration of the experience of living with anxiety. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of being constantly overwhelmed and on edge. Michaels and Gomez sing, “My friends, they wanna take me to the movies / I tell ’em to fuck off, I’m holding hands with my depression / And right when I think I’ve overcome it / Anxiety starts kicking in to teach that shit a lesson.” The chorus is a powerful reminder of how difficult it can be to manage anxiety, even with the support of loved ones. The song has a haunting and emotional melody, with a stripped-down production that emphasizes the rawness of the lyrics. Michaels and Gomez deliver powerful vocals that capture the intensity of the emotions they are singing about.

4. 24/7 – Kehlani

24/7 is a song by American singer-songwriter Kehlani. The song was released in 2016 and is a powerful exploration of the experience of living with depression. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of negative thoughts and emotions. Kehlani sings, “It’s okay to not be okay / To dive in your pain / And it’s alright to not be alright / To search for your light.” The chorus is a powerful reminder that it is okay to struggle and that we should not be ashamed of our emotions. The song has a soulful and emotional melody, with a driving beat that adds to the intensity of the lyrics. Kehlani’s vocals are powerful and passionate, conveying the depth of the emotions she is singing about. 24/7 is a powerful anthem for anyone who has struggled with depression or mental health issues. It emphasizes the message that we are not alone in our struggles and that it is important to reach out for help when we need it.

5. Help! – The Beatles

Help! is a classic song by the legendary British rock band The Beatles. The song was released in 1965 and is a powerful exploration of the experience of feeling lost and alone. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of being overwhelmed and in need of support. The chorus, “Help me if you can, I’m feeling down / And I do appreciate you being round / Help me get my feet back on the ground / Won’t you please, please help me,” is a poignant reminder of how important it is to have people in our lives who we can turn to for help. The song has a catchy and upbeat melody, with the classic rock and roll sound that The Beatles are famous for. The vocals of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison are energetic and passionate, conveying the sense of urgency in the lyrics.

6. Fake Happy – Paramore

Fake Happy is a song by American rock band Paramore. The song was released in 2017 and is a powerful exploration of the experience of hiding our true emotions from the world. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of putting on a brave face and pretending to be happy, even when we are struggling inside. Lead vocalist Hayley Williams sings, “I love making you believe / What you get is what you see / But I’m so fake happy / I feel so fake happy / And I bet everybody here / Is just as insincere / We’re all so fake happy.” The song has a catchy and upbeat melody, with a driving beat that adds to the sense of urgency in the lyrics. Williams’ vocals are powerful and emotional, conveying the depth of the emotions she is singing about. Fake Happy is a powerful anthem for anyone who has struggled with putting on a facade and pretending to be okay when they are not. It emphasizes the message that it is okay to be vulnerable and to show our true emotions.

7. Hurt – Johnny Cash

Hurt is a song by American singer-songwriter Johnny Cash. The song was released in 2002 and is a powerful exploration of the experience of regret and loss. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of looking back on a life filled with mistakes and missed opportunities. Cash sings, “What have I become / My sweetest friend / Everyone I know goes away in the end / And you could have it all / My empire of dirt / I will let you down / I will make you hurt.” The chorus is a poignant reminder of the toll that our choices can take on our lives and the lives of those around us. The song has a haunting and emotional melody, with a stripped-down production that emphasizes the rawness of the lyrics. Cash’s vocals are powerful and emotive, conveying the depth of the emotions he is singing about.

8. Sober – Demi Lovato

Sober is a song by American singer Demi Lovato. The song was released in 2018 and is a powerful exploration of the experience of addiction and relapse. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of struggling with addiction and the guilt and shame that can come with relapse. Lovato sings, “Momma, I’m so sorry, I’m not sober anymore / And daddy, please forgive me for the drinks spilled on the floor / To the ones who never left me, we’ve been down this road before / I’m so sorry, I’m not sober anymore.” The song has a soulful and emotional melody, with a driving beat that adds to the intensity of the lyrics. Lovato’s vocals are powerful and passionate, conveying the depth of the emotions she is singing about.

9. Breathin – Ariana Grande

Breathin is a song by American singer Ariana Grande. The song was released in 2018 and is a powerful exploration of the experience of anxiety and the importance of taking a moment to breathe and find inner calm. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of being overwhelmed by anxiety and the struggle to find peace in the midst of chaos. Grande sings, “Just keep breathin’ and breathin’ and breathin’ and breathin’ / And oh, I gotta keep, keep on breathin’.” The song has a pop-infused melody with a driving beat that adds to the urgency of the lyrics. Grande’s vocals are powerful and emotive, conveying the depth of the emotions she is singing about.

10. Save Myself – Ed Sheeran

Save Myself is a song by British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran. The song was released in 2017 and is a powerful exploration of the experience of self-care and the importance of taking care of oneself. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of giving everything to others and neglecting oneself in the process. Sheeran sings, “I gave you all my energy and I took away your pain / ‘Cause human beings are destined to radiate or drain / What line do we stand upon ’cause from here it looks the same? / And only scars remain.” The song has a soulful and emotional melody, with a stripped-down production that emphasizes the rawness of the lyrics. Sheeran’s vocals are powerful and emotive, conveying the depth of the emotions he is singing about.

11. Paint It, Black – The Rolling Stones

Paint It, Black is a song by the legendary English rock band, The Rolling Stones. The song was released in 1966 and is a dark and moody exploration of loss, grief, and depression.

The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of being lost and alone in a world that has lost its color. The song begins with the iconic opening line, “I see a red door and I want it painted black,” and continues with lyrics such as, “I see my red door and I must have it painted black / Maybe then I’ll fade away and not have to face the facts / It’s not easy facing up when your whole world is black.”

The song has a distinctive and powerful melody, with a driving beat and haunting guitar riffs. Mick Jagger’s vocals are raw and emotional, conveying the depth of the emotions he is singing about.

Paint It, Black is a powerful and timeless song that speaks to the experience of loss and grief. It emphasizes the message that even in the darkest moments, there is still beauty and hope to be found.

12. Fell on Black Days – Soundgarden

Fell on Black Days is a song by American rock band Soundgarden. The song was released in 1994 and is a haunting exploration of depression and the feeling of being lost in the darkness.

The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of depression, with lines such as, “Whatsoever I’ve feared has come to life / Whatsoever I’ve fought off became my life / Just when everyday seemed to greet me with a smile / Sunspots have faded and now I’m doing time.”

The song has a moody and atmospheric melody, with Chris Cornell’s powerful vocals conveying the depth of the emotions he is singing about. The use of a melancholic guitar riff and a somber piano melody adds to the haunting atmosphere of the song.

13. Head Above Water – Avril Lavigne

Head Above Water is a song by Canadian singer-songwriter Avril Lavigne. The song was released in 2018 and is a powerful exploration of the struggle to keep going in the face of adversity.

The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of being overwhelmed and on the brink of collapse, with lines such as, “God, keep my head above water / Don’t let me drown / It gets harder / I’ll meet you there at the altar.”

The song has a soaring and uplifting melody, with Lavigne’s powerful vocals conveying the determination and strength needed to overcome the challenges we face in life. The use of a driving beat and powerful guitar riffs adds to the energy and intensity of the song.

14. Now I’m in It – HAIM

Now I’m in It is a song by American pop-rock band HAIM. The song was released in 2019 and is a heartfelt exploration of the experience of being in the depths of depression.

The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of being lost and overwhelmed, with lines such as, “Woke up feeling like a hundred dollars / Bagged up all my clothes and threw them in the fire / Stressed out, feeling like a two-ton heavy thing / Then I remembered I don’t have to think.”

The song has a moody and atmospheric melody, with HAIM’s powerful vocals conveying the depth of the emotions they are singing about. The use of a driving beat and a haunting guitar riff adds to the intensity and energy of the song.

Now I’m in It is a powerful and honest song that speaks to the experience of depression and the feeling of being lost in the darkness. It emphasizes the message that it is important to seek help and support when we need it, and that there is always hope for a better tomorrow.

15. Smile – Jay-Z ft. Gloria Carter

Smile is a song by American rapper Jay-Z, featuring a spoken-word outro by his mother Gloria Carter. The song was released in 2017 and is a powerful exploration of acceptance and love in the face of discrimination.

The lyrics of the song describe the struggles of growing up as a gay person in a society that is often hostile to difference, with lines such as, “Living in the shadow / Can you imagine what kind of life it is to live? / In the shadows, people see you as happy and free / Because that’s what you want them to see.”

The song has a jazzy and soulful melody, with Jay-Z’s smooth delivery and Gloria Carter’s powerful words combining to create a powerful and emotional experience. The use of a slow tempo and rich instrumentation adds to the depth and complexity of the song.

16. Breathe Me – Sia

Breathe Me is a song by Australian singer-songwriter Sia. The song was released in 2004 and is a haunting exploration of vulnerability and the search for connection.

The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of being lost and alone, with lines such as, “Help, I have done it again / I have been here many times before / Hurt myself again today / And the worst part is there’s no one else to blame.”

The song has a sparse and minimalistic melody, with Sia’s emotive vocals conveying the depth of the emotions she is singing about. The use of a simple piano riff and atmospheric backing vocals adds to the intensity and rawness of the song.

Breathe Me is a powerful and emotional song that speaks to the experience of being vulnerable and the search for connection in a world that can be isolating and harsh. It emphasizes the message that we are all human and that we all need each other to survive and thrive.

17. Not Dark Yet – Bob Dylan

Not Dark Yet is a song by American singer-songwriter Bob Dylan. The song was released in 1997 and is a reflection on mortality and the passage of time. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of being worn down by life, with lines such as, “I was born here and I’ll die here / Against my will / I know it looks like I’m moving / But I’m standing still.” The song has a slow and melancholy melody, with Dylan’s gravelly vocals conveying a sense of weariness and resignation. The use of a simple guitar riff and atmospheric backing vocals adds to the introspective and reflective tone of the song. Not Dark Yet is a powerful and contemplative song that speaks to the experience of aging and facing the inevitability of death. It emphasizes the message that life is short and that we should appreciate every moment while we can.

18. Today – The Smashing Pumpkins

Today is a song by American alternative rock band The Smashing Pumpkins. The song was released in 1993 and is a high-energy exploration of the struggle to stay positive in the face of adversity. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of being weighed down by life, with lines such as, “Today is the greatest day I’ve ever known / Can’t live for tomorrow, tomorrow’s much too long.” The song has an upbeat and driving melody, with frontman Billy Corgan’s urgent vocals conveying a sense of urgency and determination. The use of distorted guitars and propulsive drums adds to the sense of energy and intensity of the song. Today is a powerful and uplifting song that speaks to the experience of fighting to stay positive and hopeful in the face of life’s challenges. It emphasizes the message that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a better tomorrow.

19. Perfect – Anne-Marie

Perfect is a song by English singer Anne-Marie. The song was released in 2018 and is a tribute to the imperfections that make people unique and special. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of not being perfect and the pressure to conform to society’s expectations, with lines such as, “I’m not a perfect person / There’s many things I wish I didn’t do.” The song has a catchy and upbeat melody, with Anne-Marie’s strong vocals conveying a sense of self-acceptance and empowerment. The use of bright synths and a driving beat adds to the positive and uplifting tone of the song. Perfect is a powerful and inspiring song that celebrates individuality and encourages listeners to embrace their flaws and be proud of who they are.

20. Unwell – Matchbox Twenty

Unwell is a song by American rock band Matchbox Twenty. The song was released in 2003 and is an exploration of mental health struggles and the stigma surrounding them. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of being “unwell” and the struggle to find help and support, with lines such as, “All day staring at the ceiling / Making friends with shadows on my wall.” The song has a moody and introspective melody, with frontman Rob Thomas’ vulnerable vocals conveying a sense of isolation and desperation. The use of acoustic guitars and a subdued rhythm section adds to the intimate and confessional tone of the song. Unwell is a powerful and honest song that sheds light on the struggles of those dealing with mental health issues. It emphasizes the message that it’s okay to not be okay and encourages listeners to seek help and support when needed.

21. Wake Up Alone – Amy Winehouse

Wake Up Alone is a song by English singer Amy Winehouse. The song was released in 2007 and is a poignant reflection on the pain of loneliness and addiction. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of waking up alone after a night of partying and the desperation to find comfort and escape from the pain, with lines such as, “I stay up late at night / My mind takes flight / I need to be with somebody tonight.” The song has a jazzy and melancholic melody, with Winehouse’s soulful vocals conveying a sense of vulnerability and heartache. The use of brass instruments and a slow tempo adds to the mournful and introspective tone of the song. Wake Up Alone is a powerful and emotional song that speaks to the experience of those struggling with addiction and loneliness. It emphasizes the message that it’s okay to ask for help and that there is always hope for a better tomorrow.

22. Heavy – Linkin Park

Heavy is a song by American rock band Linkin Park. The song was released in 2017 and is a powerful exploration of the weight of emotional burden and the struggle to break free from it. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of being weighed down by one’s thoughts and emotions, with lines such as, “I’m holding on / Why is everything so heavy? / Holding on / So much more than I can carry.” The song has a stripped-down and pop-influenced melody, with lead vocalist Chester Bennington’s raw and vulnerable vocals conveying a sense of despair and frustration. The use of electronic beats and atmospheric synths adds to the intimate and introspective tone of the song. Heavy is a powerful and honest song that sheds light on the struggles of those dealing with mental health issues. It emphasizes the message that it’s okay to not be okay and encourages listeners to seek help and support when needed.

23. Hunger – Florence + the Machine

Hunger is a song by English indie rock band Florence + the Machine. The song was released in 2018 and is a powerful exploration of the search for meaning and fulfillment in life. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of hunger, both physical and emotional, with lines such as, “At seventeen, I started to starve myself / I thought that love was a kind of emptiness / And at least I understood then the hunger I felt / And I didn’t have to call it loneliness.” The song has a driving and anthemic melody, with lead singer Florence Welch’s powerful and soaring vocals conveying a sense of urgency and longing. The use of choral vocals and pounding drums adds to the epic and uplifting tone of the song. Hunger is a song that speaks to the universal experience of searching for purpose and fulfillment. It emphasizes the message that we are not alone in our struggles and encourages listeners to embrace their hunger and pursue their passions.

24. Paranoid Android – Radiohead

Paranoid Android is a song by English rock band Radiohead. The song was released in 1997 and is a surreal and haunting exploration of the dark side of modern society. The lyrics of the song describe a disjointed and chaotic world, with lines such as, “What’s that? / I can’t hear you / Nothing makes sense anymore / Nothing makes sense.” The song has a complex and experimental melody, with shifting time signatures and a wide range of instruments, including guitars, pianos, and strings. Lead singer Thom Yorke’s haunting vocals convey a sense of confusion and despair, while the band’s mastery of their instruments adds to the disorienting and unsettling tone of the song. Paranoid Android is a powerful and thought-provoking song that challenges listeners to question the world around them. It emphasizes the message that we must be aware of the dark forces at play in our society and encourages listeners to seek out the truth and fight for justice.

25. Fix You – Coldplay

Fix You is a song by British rock band Coldplay. The song was released in 2005 and has become one of the band’s most iconic and beloved tracks. The lyrics of the song describe the desire to help someone who is struggling, with lines such as, “When you try your best, but you don’t succeed / When you get what you want, but not what you need / When you feel so tired, but you can’t sleep / Stuck in reverse.” The song has a soaring and anthemic melody, with lead singer Chris Martin’s emotive vocals conveying a sense of empathy and compassion. The use of a slowly building crescendo and a soaring guitar solo adds to the uplifting and hopeful tone of the song. Fix You is a song that speaks to the power of human connection and the importance of supporting those who are struggling. It emphasizes the message that we all have the ability to help others and encourages listeners to be there for those in need.

26. Waving Through a Window – Ben Platt and Original Broadway Cast of Dear Evan Hansen

Waving Through a Window is a song from the Broadway musical Dear Evan Hansen. The song was originally performed by actor Ben Platt and the original cast of the musical in 2016. The lyrics of the song describe the feeling of isolation and disconnection, with lines such as, “On the outside, always looking in / Will I ever be more than I’ve always been? / ‘Cause I’m tap, tap, tapping on the glass / I’m waving through a window.” The song has a poignant and introspective melody, with Ben Platt’s powerful vocals conveying a sense of vulnerability and loneliness. The use of a sparse piano accompaniment and a gradual build-up of instrumental layers adds to the emotional and stirring tone of the song. Waving Through a Window is a song that speaks to the experience of feeling alone and disconnected, and emphasizes the message that we are not alone in our struggles. It encourages listeners to reach out for help and support, and to remember that there is always hope for a brighter future.

27. Where is My Mind? – Pixies

“Where is My Mind?” is a song by the American alternative rock band Pixies. It was released in 1988 and has become one of the band’s most well-known and popular tracks. The song features surreal lyrics that evoke a sense of confusion and disorientation, with lines such as, “With your feet in the air and your head on the ground / Try this trick and spin it, yeah / Your head will collapse, but there’s nothing in it.” The song has a dreamy and ethereal melody, with frontman Black Francis’ distinctive vocals conveying a sense of detachment and unease. The use of a slowly building instrumental section and a distorted guitar solo adds to the hypnotic and otherworldly tone of the song. “Where is My Mind?” is a song that speaks to the experience of feeling lost and disconnected from reality. It encourages listeners to embrace their inner turmoil and to find meaning in the chaos.

28. One – Metallica

“One” is a song by the American heavy metal band Metallica. It was released in 1988 and has become one of the band’s most iconic and influential tracks. The lyrics of the song describe the experience of a soldier who has been severely injured in battle, with lines such as, “Landmine has taken my sight / Taken my speech, taken my hearing / Taken my arms, taken my legs / Taken my soul, left me with life in hell.” The song has a powerful and intense melody, with frontman James Hetfield’s aggressive vocals conveying a sense of anger and frustration. The use of a slowly building instrumental section and a haunting guitar solo adds to the emotional and stirring tone of the song. “One” is a song that speaks to the devastating impact of war and violence, and emphasizes the message that we must work to prevent such tragedies from occurring. It encourages listeners to stand up for what is right and to fight for a better world.

29. Crucify – Tori Amos

“Crucify” is a song by American singer-songwriter Tori Amos, released in 1992. It was one of her first singles to achieve commercial success and helped establish her as a unique voice in the alternative rock scene. The lyrics of the song describe the experience of feeling trapped and judged by society, with lines such as “Why do we crucify ourselves every day? / I crucify myself, nothing I do is good enough for you.” The use of religious imagery, such as the title of the song, adds a sense of weight and significance to the lyrics. The song has a haunting and emotive melody, with Amos’ distinctive and powerful vocals conveying a sense of pain and longing. The use of a slow-building instrumental section and a mournful piano solo adds to the emotional and introspective tone of the song. “Crucify” is a song that speaks to the experience of feeling marginalized or oppressed by societal norms and expectations. It encourages listeners to embrace their individuality and to reject the pressures of conformity, while also acknowledging the difficulty and pain that comes with standing out.