Since I was in middle school I’ve dealt with depression and anxiety. I had to find ways to keep myself from going over the edge because sadly during that time I didn’t really feel like I had someone to talk to. Both of my parents are immigrants and if you know, you know. Mental health isn’t a very big thing to them because they grew up being told to get over things and that they’re fine. So they only passed on what they were taught, which is fine I can’t really blame them too much. That only meant that I had to figure it out on my own, so I indulged in music. Mostly Jhene Aiko, she brought me a sense of peace, the beats were soothing, her voice was calm and gentle so honestly she was my escape for a while. Since she helped me so much, whenever I would be sad or in my head I would play her music and it would help me get out of my head. A song by her that has helped me a lot is called W.A.Y.S. Which stands for “why aren’t you smiling”, this song would help me realize that although I’m sad and how I’m feeling is valid, there’s so much to be grateful for.
Now realizing how much music helps me, I try to listen to more upbeat music when I am feeling sad or anxious because it can completely change your mood and vibrations. Honestly, before i used to listen to sad music which would make me sadder. I feel like we’ve all done it before because sometimes you just want to listen to how you feel, but i realized that for me i need to try to get out of the mood as soon as possible before it gets worse. Don’t get me wrong though, i still very much enjoy my “sad” music because alot of the time i can relate to what they’re saying and going through and it’s nice to know that I’m not the only person that feels a specific way. Music can make you realize that we as humans are so much alike.
Music has such a huge influence on people, it can simply be someone’s escape and that’s what it was for me. Unfortunately i don’t have a nice singing voice so i couldn’t really “do” music. But i will always enjoy it, sing other songs, dance to it, just be free when music is on. Thats what it’s about right? Being free and being able to express yourself in a healthy way.
Unruly Bodies 
Hello! Thank you for sharing your story. Music is good for the soul. I enjoy it, especially now more than ever. I’m naturally a fun person and like to engage in foolish. But, when I’m in a relax mood or going through something, instead of cursing a mfer out, I’ll listen to music. Just yesterday, Dr. Kate (who is fkn awesome man!!), we created a playlist in class. Some of songs that I’d never heard of, but were interesting and amazing. Different genres for different types of feelings. I will sometimes put a song on and then let the Pandora shuffle the songs, but sometimes that gets me mad because I don’t like the songs it decided and now I have to start over. LOL! I will listen to rap when I’m in “act a fool mode”, r & b when I want to chill, gospel when “I don’t want to go to jail” mode or the older songs. I mostly do this when I’m driving, I have a good time too. Everyone has to find an avenue that helps them be the best version of them. We all go through things, some worse than others or not being able to handle certain situations, which is fine. I think for you, music was and still is your coping mechanism and I hope you continue and focus on yourself as mental health is just as important as physical. Good luck on your exams.
Hi there, I felt it deeply when you said that you would listen to sad music when you’re sad and it honestly just digs you in a deeper mental hole of those saddening events. Jhene Aiko also was one of the artists I listened to heavily when I had my own hassles going on. Alongside her voice being completely amazing, her music is purifying in a sense. It’s able to lift you up into your good senses and overall change your mood! Just like other uplifting music like you talked about, the music we listen to can label not only our moods but our personalities as a whole. If you listen to rap all the time, you’re probably inclined to be more aggressive towards people and things, or listening to sad music all the time resulting in you being mopey. I’m so happy you found comfort in music and that it’s been able to mend your reality positively. Anyways, good luck on your finals!
Thank you for sharing your personal journey with music as a lifeline during difficult times. It’s inspiring how Jhene Aiko’s soothing tunes, particularly “W.A.Y.S.,” provided comfort and a reminder of gratitude. Your shift to more upbeat music highlights the therapeutic nature of music in influencing mood.
Your insight into the shared human experience through music is profound, emphasizing its ability to create connection and understanding. Your story beautifully captures the liberating and expressive qualities of music, even if you don’t consider yourself a musician.
Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing how music has been a source of solace for you. Your journey serves as a reminder of the healing power found in something as simple yet profound as a song.