Country Songs That Raise Awareness for Mental Health

TRIGGER WARNING: Mental Health Issues like Anxiety and Depression

October 10th is World Mental Health Day. Here at The Nash News, we support artists who speak on sensitive issues like the reality of mental health problems. To raise awareness, here is a list of songs that explain the complexity of the challenges mental health issues bring.

1. "Rainbow" by Kacey Musgraves

“Rainbow” is an emotional song that speaks on the struggles of being overwhelmed. It talks about how it is hard to balance everything going on in life, and how it almost feels like you’re sinking: “It's hard to breathe when all you know is / The struggle of stayin' above the risin' water line.” Then, Musgraves talks about how it will be alright because the rain has stopped and “That there's always been a rainbow hangin' over your head.” Musgraves truly knows how to write a touching song with a profound message.

2. "Anxiety" by Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit

This meaningful song gives listeners something to relate to. It is about how anxiety always chips away at our minds, letting us think about the worst-case scenarios. Those who suffer from anxiety can relate to the truth in the chorus: "Anxiety / How do you always get the best of me? / I'm out here living in a fantasy / I can't enjoy a goddamn thing.”

3. "Good Day" by Brett Eldredge

“Good Day” focuses on the positive aspects of life, which can be challenging for those affected by depression. Written during the pandemic, Eldredge was tired of his negative mindset. Depression weighs on your mind and heart, but Eldredge pushed through to write a message of simple joy. The song reminds listeners who are down that, “It's gonna be a good day / And if the world gonna keep on spinnin' / Let it keep spinnin' on my way.”

4. "Don’t Cry" by Morgan Wade

Wade is one of the very few country artists who bring awareness to mental health issues on a regular basis. “Don’t Cry” is a powerful message of how it is okay to struggle sometimes. We can’t always be in good shape, and it is completely normal to not be. Wade’s lyrics are meaningfully poetic with lines like, “It's okay to not be alright and / Let it go, let it go, let it go / Face the truth and bare your soul / Lose yourself and break your heart / It's a beautiful thing to fall apart.”

If you or someone you know is suffering from mental health issues, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers a free helpline: 800-950-6264. Be kind to yourself and others.

To hear more of country music’s best new releases, head to our Playlists Page and follow The Nash New Releases playlist on Spotify. For the latest in country music news follow The Nash News on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok, and don’t miss our brand new newsletter!