Anxiety is a common and complex mental health issue that affects millions of people around the world. While it can be a debilitating condition, it is also something that many artists have explored in their music. In fact, music can be a powerful tool for exploring and expressing feelings of anxiety, and many musicians have used their platform to open up a dialogue about this issue. From heavy metal to pop, the topic of anxiety has been explored in a wide variety of genres, each with their own unique sound and approach. In this article, we will be exploring the top 20 songs about anxiety, and how they represent the experience of living with this mental health condition. Whether you are looking for music to help you feel less alone in your struggles or seeking a deeper understanding of anxiety, these songs offer a diverse and insightful look at this important issue.
1. “Unwell” by Matchbox 20
“Unwell” by Matchbox 20 is a mid-tempo pop-rock song released in 2003. The song is characterized by its introspective lyrics and melancholic tone, with lead singer Rob Thomas opening up about his struggles with mental health issues. The song features a simple but effective guitar riff and a catchy chorus that has made it a fan-favorite over the years.
The lyrics of “Unwell” are introspective and raw, touching on themes of anxiety and depression. Thomas sings about feeling out of place and struggling to connect with others, with lines like “I’m not crazy, I’m just a little unwell / I know right now you can’t tell”. The song’s chorus is uplifting and hopeful, with Thomas singing about finding comfort in his music and the idea that he’s not alone in his struggles.
The music video for “Unwell” features a performance by the band in a variety of surreal and whimsical settings, including a carnival and a psychiatric ward. The video’s imagery reflects the song’s themes of struggling with mental health issues and trying to find one’s place in the world.
Overall, “Unwell” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today. Its relatable lyrics and catchy melody have made it a staple of modern pop-rock and a beloved song among fans of Matchbox 20.
2. “Breathin’” by Ariana Grande
“Breathin'” by Ariana Grande is a powerful pop ballad released in 2018. The song showcases Grande’s vocal range and emotional depth, while the production features a blend of electronic and acoustic elements that create a unique soundscape.
The song’s lyrics deal with themes of anxiety and perseverance. Grande sings about feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges and struggling to catch her breath, but ultimately finding the strength to keep going. The song’s chorus features a simple but memorable melody and a powerful message: “Just keep breathin’ and breathin’ and breathin'”.
The music video for “Breathin'” is a surreal and dreamlike depiction of Grande’s struggles with anxiety. The video features imagery of the singer floating in the clouds and interacting with a variety of animals, creating a sense of otherworldliness that reflects the song’s themes.
Overall, “Breathin'” is a moving and deeply personal song that resonates with listeners. Its message of resilience and determination in the face of mental health struggles has made it an anthem for many fans of Grande and a testament to the power of music to heal and inspire.
3. “Running up that Hill” by Kate Bush
“Running up that Hill” by Kate Bush is a hauntingly beautiful and introspective song that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the struggle to understand one another. The song features Bush’s ethereal vocals layered over a pulsating beat and a wall of sound created by swirling synthesizers and echoing guitars. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, speaking of the desire to trade places with a loved one in order to better understand them, and the challenges that can arise when trying to bridge the gap between two people. The song’s chorus is a powerful, repeating mantra that echoes the sentiment of the lyrics, urging the listener to keep pushing forward and striving to understand and connect with others. “Running up that Hill” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate and inspire listeners with its haunting beauty and powerful message.
4. “Mirrorball” by Taylor Swift
“Mirrorball” by Taylor Swift is a dreamy and introspective ballad that explores the ups and downs of love and the vulnerability that comes with opening oneself up to another person. The song features Swift’s signature emotive vocals over a sparse, yet atmospheric arrangement of acoustic guitar and shimmering synths. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, speaking of the fear and uncertainty that can come with falling in love, and the need for vulnerability and honesty in order to make a relationship work. The song’s chorus is a soaring and hopeful refrain that speaks to the transformative power of love, urging the listener to let go of their fears and embrace the beauty and potential that comes with opening oneself up to another person. “Mirrorball” is a stunning showcase of Swift’s songwriting and vocal prowess, and a testament to the enduring power of love and vulnerability in the human experience.
5. “I’ll Be” by Edwin McCain
“I’ll Be” by Edwin McCain is a heartfelt and romantic ballad that speaks to the enduring power of love and the commitment to stand by one’s partner through thick and thin. The song features McCain’s soulful and emotive vocals over a stripped-down acoustic arrangement of guitar and piano. The lyrics are simple yet deeply affecting, speaking of the promise to always be there for a loved one, even in the face of adversity and hardship. The song’s chorus is a soaring and powerful refrain that speaks to the depth of the commitment that the singer has made to his partner, promising to be there for them in good times and bad. “I’ll Be” is a timeless classic that has become a staple at weddings and romantic events, and a reminder of the enduring power of love and commitment in the human experience.
6. “Disturbia” by Rihanna
“Disturbia” by Rihanna is an infectious and dark pop song that explores the darker side of the human psyche and the fear of losing control. The song features Rihanna’s powerful and emotive vocals over a pulsating beat and a wall of sound created by distorted synths and haunting melodies. The lyrics are haunting and introspective, speaking of the fear of losing one’s mind and succumbing to the darkness within. The song’s chorus is a powerful and memorable hook that captures the tension and unease of the song, repeating the title phrase “Disturbia” and reinforcing the idea of being trapped in a state of fear and uncertainty. “Disturbia” is a masterful blend of pop sensibility and dark themes, and a testament to Rihanna’s ability to craft catchy and memorable songs that still manage to explore deeper emotional themes.
7. “Save My Soul” by JoJo
“Save My Soul” by JoJo is a powerful and emotive ballad that speaks to the struggles of addiction and the need for hope and redemption in the face of personal darkness. The song features JoJo’s soulful and raw vocals over a sparse, yet emotional arrangement of piano and atmospheric synths. The lyrics are introspective and personal, speaking of the pain and isolation that come with addiction, and the search for a way out of the darkness. The song’s chorus is a soaring and hopeful refrain that speaks to the power of hope and the potential for redemption and healing, urging the listener to keep fighting and not give up. “Save My Soul” is a deeply personal and moving song that speaks to the human experience of struggle and the need for hope and connection in the face of personal darkness.
8. “Shake It Out” by Florence + the Machine
“Shake It Out” by Florence + The Machine is a powerful and anthemic pop song that speaks to the need for release and catharsis in the face of personal struggles and emotional pain. The song features Florence Welch’s soaring and operatic vocals over a lush and dynamic arrangement of strings, drums, and synths. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, speaking of the pain and emotional baggage that can hold us back, and the need to let go and move forward. The song’s chorus is a powerful and memorable refrain that captures the cathartic release and transformative power of dancing and letting go. “Shake It Out” is a powerful and emotionally resonant song that speaks to the universal human experience of struggle and the need for release and transformation in the face of personal pain and hardship.
9. “Human” by Christina Perri
“Human” by Christina Perri is an emotional and introspective piano-driven ballad that explores the themes of vulnerability, pain, and the struggle to connect with others. The song features Perri’s soulful and emotive vocals over a simple yet impactful arrangement of piano and strings. The lyrics are introspective and raw, speaking of the struggles of living with the pain and imperfections that make us human, and the desire to be understood and accepted by others. The song’s chorus is a powerful and emotional refrain that speaks to the universal human experience of vulnerability and the need for connection and empathy. “Human” is a touching and personal song that speaks to the human experience of pain and the universal desire to be understood and accepted.
10. “Fix You” by Coldplay
“Fix You” by Coldplay is a deeply emotional and uplifting song that speaks to the power of love and connection to heal and uplift us in times of pain and struggle. The song features Chris Martin’s raw and emotive vocals over a gradually building arrangement of piano, guitar, and strings. The lyrics are introspective and personal, speaking of the pain and struggles of life, and the desire to be “fixed” by someone’s love and care. The song’s chorus is a soaring and powerful refrain that speaks to the transformative power of love and the human potential for healing and redemption. “Fix You” is a moving and universally relatable song that speaks to the human experience of struggle and the power of love and connection to uplift and heal us in times of pain and hardship.
11. “Rose-Colored Boy” by Paramore
“Rose-Colored Boy” by Paramore is a dynamic and upbeat pop-rock song that speaks to the struggle of maintaining positivity and hope in the face of personal struggles and emotional pain. The song features Hayley Williams’ dynamic and powerful vocals over a catchy and energetic arrangement of guitars, drums, and synths. The lyrics are introspective and honest, speaking of the challenges of feeling and expressing emotions in a culture that values positivity and happiness above all else. The song’s chorus is a memorable and infectious refrain that speaks to the struggle to maintain a positive outlook despite the challenges of life. “Rose-Colored Boy” is a powerful and relatable song that speaks to the universal human experience of struggle and the need for hope and positivity to navigate life’s challenges.
12. “Growing Pains” by Alessia Cara
“Growing Pains” by Alessia Cara is a reflective and introspective song that speaks to the universal experience of growing up and facing the challenges of adulthood. The song features Alessia Cara’s soulful and emotive vocals over a stripped-down arrangement of piano and drums. The lyrics are deeply personal and honest, speaking of the emotional and physical pain of growing up, and the struggle to find one’s place in the world. The song’s chorus is a memorable and heartfelt refrain that speaks to the human experience of struggle and the hope for growth and transformation in the face of adversity. “Growing Pains” is a moving and relatable song that speaks to the universal human experience of growth and the challenges of navigating life’s transitions.
13. “I’m Only Happy When it Rains” by Garbage
“I’m Only Happy When it Rains” by Garbage is an alternative rock classic that features Shirley Manson’s signature raspy vocals over a moody and atmospheric arrangement of guitars and drums. The song’s lyrics are introspective and honest, speaking of the singer’s tendency to find comfort in misery and pain. The song’s chorus is a memorable and infectious refrain that speaks to the human experience of finding comfort in negativity and darkness. The song’s music video, which features a stark and visually striking aesthetic, helped to establish Garbage as a major force in alternative rock in the 1990s. “I’m Only Happy When it Rains” is a timeless and iconic song that speaks to the complexity of the human experience and the universality of emotions like sadness and pain.
14. “Holocene” by Bon Iver
“Holocene” by Bon Iver is a hauntingly beautiful song that features Justin Vernon’s distinctive falsetto vocals over a sparse and atmospheric arrangement of guitar, piano, and percussion. The song’s lyrics are poetic and evocative, speaking to the search for meaning and connection in the natural world. The song’s chorus is a memorable and moving refrain that speaks to the human experience of yearning for something greater than ourselves. The song’s music video, which features stunning footage of Iceland’s landscape, enhances the song’s sense of mystery and wonder. “Holocene” is a timeless and emotive song that speaks to the human experience of searching for beauty, meaning, and connection in the world around us.
15. “Perfect To Me” by Anne-Marie
“Perfect To Me” by Anne-Marie is a pop anthem that celebrates individuality and self-love. The song’s upbeat and catchy melody features Anne-Marie’s distinctive and powerful vocals over a bouncy arrangement of piano and percussion. The song’s lyrics are empowering and uplifting, speaking to the importance of accepting ourselves for who we are, imperfections and all. The song’s chorus is an infectious and memorable refrain that encourages listeners to embrace their uniqueness and to love themselves just the way they are. The song’s music video, which features diverse and inclusive representations of beauty, adds to the song’s message of self-love and acceptance. “Perfect To Me” is an inspiring and joyful song that celebrates the beauty of individuality and encourages listeners to love and accept themselves for who they are.
16. “In My Blood” by Shawn Mendes
“In My Blood” by Shawn Mendes is an anthemic pop-rock ballad that speaks to the experience of struggling with anxiety and mental health. The song’s soaring and powerful melody features Mendes’ emotive and soulful vocals over a driving arrangement of guitar, piano, and percussion. The song’s lyrics are deeply personal and introspective, describing the feeling of being trapped in one’s own thoughts and the struggle to find hope and strength to carry on. The song’s chorus is a memorable and inspiring refrain that speaks to the human experience of persevering through challenges and finding inner strength. “In My Blood” is a raw and honest song that speaks to the universal experience of struggling with mental health and the resilience of the human spirit.
17. “Sober” by Demi Lovato
“Sober” by Demi Lovato is a powerful pop ballad that speaks to the experience of struggling with addiction and relapse. The song’s soulful and emotional melody features Lovato’s powerful vocals over a stripped-back arrangement of piano and strings. The song’s lyrics are honest and vulnerable, describing the inner turmoil of addiction and the challenges of sobriety. The song’s chorus is a soaring and heartbreaking refrain that speaks to the struggle of wanting to stay sober but feeling powerless to do so. “Sober” is a deeply personal and emotional song that speaks to the universal experience of struggling with addiction and the courage it takes to seek help and begin the journey to recovery.
18. “Lovely” by Billie Eilish feat. Khalid
“lovely” is a haunting and emotional duet between Billie Eilish and Khalid that combines sparse instrumentation with ethereal vocals to create a melancholy and introspective mood. The song’s simple and haunting melody features Eilish’s soft and delicate vocals over a minimalistic arrangement of piano and strings. Khalid’s soulful and powerful vocals add a sense of depth and emotional weight to the song. The song’s lyrics speak to the themes of loneliness and isolation, and the desire to find connection with others. The chorus is a haunting and memorable refrain that speaks to the universal experience of feeling lost and disconnected. “lovely” is a haunting and introspective song that speaks to the human experience of searching for meaning and connection in a sometimes lonely world.
19. “Anxiety” by Julia Michaels
“Anxiety” is a poignant and vulnerable song that explores the experience of living with anxiety. Julia Michaels’ honest and emotive vocals convey the inner turmoil and struggles of someone living with anxiety, as she sings about the constant fear and worry that comes with it. The song’s sparse and minimalistic arrangement features simple piano chords and a gentle beat that allows Michaels’ vocals to take center stage. The lyrics of “Anxiety” are relatable and poignant, speaking to the universal experience of feeling overwhelmed and anxious. The song is a powerful and honest exploration of mental health that encourages listeners to be more open and empathetic to those who are struggling.
20. “Crawling” by Linkin Park
“Crawling” is a powerful and emotional song that explores the feelings of pain and desperation that come with struggling with inner demons. Linkin Park’s signature blend of rock and rap creates a raw and intense sound that perfectly captures the intense emotions of the lyrics. Lead singer Chester Bennington’s vocals are haunting and raw, conveying the sense of hopelessness and despair that comes with feeling trapped and overwhelmed. The song’s heavy guitar riffs and pounding drums create a tense and chaotic soundscape that perfectly captures the chaos of inner turmoil. “Crawling” is a poignant and honest exploration of mental health struggles and a reminder of the importance of seeking help and support.
April Johnson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
