Mental health is a topic that affects millions of people worldwide, and the stigma surrounding it can make it difficult for some to speak out.
However, music has been a powerful medium for artists to express their experiences with mental illness, and indie rock is no exception.
In this article, we’ll be taking a look at ten of the best indie rock songs about mental health.
10 Best Indie Rock Songs About Mental Health
10. “It’s Not Just Me” by Let’s Eat Grandma
Let’s Eat Grandma’s “It’s Not Just Me” is a song that captures the feeling of being alone in your struggles with mental health. The lyrics describe feeling like “a ship that’s lost at sea,” but ultimately, the message is one of hope.
9. “All Is Well (Goodbye, Goodbye)” by Radical Face
Radical Face’s “All Is Well (Goodbye, Goodbye)” is a song that deals with the aftermath of a suicide attempt.
The lyrics are raw and honest, describing the feelings of shame and guilt that often come with mental illness.
8. “Brick” by Ben Folds Five
Ben Folds Five’s “Brick” is a song that deals with the aftermath of an abortion. While not explicitly about mental illness, the song’s themes of guilt and regret are universal to anyone who has struggled with their mental health.
The lyrics are powerful and emotional, making “Brick” a standout track in the indie rock canon.
7. “Worry” by Songhoy Blues
Songhoy Blues’ “Worry” is a song that deals with the anxiety that comes with living in a world that seems to be constantly falling apart. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery, painting a picture of a world that is full of danger and uncertainty.
6. “Shake It Out” by Florence + The Machine
“Shake It Out” is an uplifting song and once of the best Florence + The Machine songs that encourages listeners to shake off negative thoughts and emotions and move forward in a positive direction.
Florence Welch has talked about her own struggles with anxiety and panic attacks, and this song is a reflection of her own journey towards self-acceptance and healing.
The lyrics “It’s hard to dance with a devil on your back, so shake him off” are a powerful reminder that we can’t let our mental health struggles hold us back.
5. “Don’t Panic” by Coldplay
Coldplay’s “Don’t Panic” is a song that deals with the feeling of being overwhelmed by the world around you. The lyrics are filled with images of chaos and destruction, but ultimately, the song’s message is one of hope.
This track is a reminder to focus on the good things in life.
4. “Kettering” by The Antlers
The Antlers’ “Kettering” is a song that deals with the experience of watching someone you love suffer from a terminal illness.
While not explicitly about mental illness, the song’s themes of loss and grief are universal to anyone who has struggled with their mental health. The lyrics are haunting and emotional, making “Kettering” a standout track in the indie rock canon.
3. “Evelyn” by Kim Tillman and Silent Films
Kim Tillman and Silent Films’ “Evelyn” is a song that deals with the experience of losing someone to suicide. The lyrics are raw and honest, describing the feelings of guilt and regret that often come with mental illness.
The song is a powerful reminder that those struggling with mental illness are not alone in their struggles.
2. “Stressed Out” by Twenty One Pilots
Twenty One Pilots’ “Stressed Out” is a song that deals with the pressure of growing up and the feeling of nostalgia for a simpler time. The lyrics are relatable and honest, describing the struggle of trying to navigate the challenges of adulthood.
The song is a reminder that the pressures of modern society can take a toll on mental health.
1. “The Greatest” by Lana Del Rey
Lana Del Rey’s “The Greatest” is a song that deals with the feelings of sadness and anxiety that come with living in a world that seems to be falling apart. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery, painting a picture of a world that is full of chaos and uncertainty.
The song is a powerful reminder that it’s okay to struggle with mental illness and that there is hope for those who are struggling.
Best Indie Rock Songs About Mental Health – Final Thoughts
Indie rock has been a powerful medium for artists to express their experiences with mental illness. These ten songs are just a few examples of the incredible music that has been created on this topic.
By sharing their stories through music, these artists are helping to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and creating a space for open and honest conversations.
“Florence Welch – Florence and the Machine – NSSN – 2011” by w. fox is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0.