Unlocking The Lyrics: Exploring The Themes of Mental Health in Selected Contemporary Song

UNLOCKING THE LYRICS: EXPLORING THE THEMES
OF MENTAL HEALTH IN SELECTED

CONTEMPORARY SONG
PSYCHOLOGY AND EDUCATION: A MULTIDISCIPLINARY JOURNAL
Volume: 16
Issue 7
Pages: 730-741
Document ID: 2024PEMJ1495
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.10540042
Manuscript Accepted: 12-22-2023
Psych Educ, 2024, 16(7): 730-741, Document ID:2024PEMJ1495, doi:10.5281/zenodo.10540042, ISSN 2822-4353
Research Article
Unlocking the Lyrics: Exploring the Themes of Mental Health in Selected

Contemporary Song
Melvin G. Barete *, Jay B. Albarico, Mark Q. Auditor, Esrael P. Balilaon, Mark Louie L. Budias, Bryan
Kim C. Dajero, Rex Jeb Q. Jamisolamin, Edgar R. Lumandas, Reangay A. Obeso, Francis Angelo B.
Piscos, Fremativo A. Vergara, Rovic M. Villalon, Evan P. Taja-on
For affiliations and correspondence, see the last page.
Abstract
In light of current difficulties and the prevalence of mental health issues, music—a powerful medium for emotional
expression and narrative—has historically addressed resilience, mental health, and personal challenges. This research
explores the representation of mental health in selected contemporary music, recognizing the current societal emphasis
on mental well-being. Despite numerous studies exploring the impact of music, there is a need for further research to
analyze songs that specifically address personal struggles. Grounded in Narrative Psychology Theory, the study
employs descriptive qualitative research to explore the nuances of mental health expressions in a purposively selected
sample of 12 songs from diverse genres released within the last decade. Thematic analysis reveals prevalent themes
related to personal struggles, mental health issues, and overcoming adversities, providing insights into how musicians
navigate and articulate mental health experiences. Using pseudonyms ensures confidentiality in reporting findings in
an interconnected narrative format. The study underscores the vital role of music as a medium for expressing and
understanding mental health experiences, offering resonance to listeners, and contributing to the cultural discourse on
mental well-being. Exploring diverse themes in contemporary songs enriches our understanding of the multifaceted
dimensions of mental health in today's culture.
Keywords: contemporary music; mental well-being; mental health in songs
Introduction
Music has always played a pivotal role in society, serving as a powerful platform for individuals to express their emotions (Juslin,
2013), experiences (Hodges, 2019), and struggles (Creech et al., 2023). Throughout history, countless songs have emerged that delve
deep into personal struggles, mental health, perseverance, and overcoming adversity (Gustavson et al., 2021). These themes connect
deeply with listeners, providing solace, motivation, and shared understanding. Today, marked by the widespread occurrence of mental
health issues and the increasing importance of resilience amid challenges (Fernando & Moodley, 2018), the study of songs relating to
personal struggles and overcoming challenges has gained considerable significance (Baker et al., 2018).
Mental health issues have become a prevalent and pressing concern in contemporary society, with increasing awareness of the impact
these issues have on individuals, communities, and public health (MacDonald, 2013). The multifaceted nature of mental health,
encompassing a spectrum of experiences and emotions, necessitates a nuanced exploration of its representation in cultural artifacts.
Music, as a powerful form of artistic expression, mirrors societal sentiments and can reflect, shape, and influence attitudes toward
mental health (Boswell, 2022; Ishak, 2020).
Contemporary music, in particular, has witnessed a surge in artists addressing mental health topics in their lyrics. Whether through raw
and introspective self-disclosures or metaphorical expressions, musicians often serve as storytellers, conveying the complexities of
mental health in ways that resonate with diverse audiences (Tan & Sin, 2021; Spartz, 2019). Given the diversity of musical genres and
the broad spectrum of emotions associated with mental health, a qualitative exploration of selected contemporary song lyrics promises
a deeper understanding of the intricate ways in which artists navigate and portray mental health themes.
While there has been considerable research on the impact of music on mental health and the therapeutic benefits of music, there is a
research gap in terms of in-depth analysis specifically, focusing on songs that deal with themes of personal struggles, mental health,
and overcoming adversity (Toscher, 2020; Wang et al., 2022). Although many studies have explored the effects of music on mental
health, the study focuses on the general effects of music genres or the impact of lyrics regardless of their themes (Gustavson et al.,
2021). A practical knowledge gap in the existing body of research is the lack of specific attention paid to songs that explicitly deal with
personal struggles, mental health issues, or overcoming adversity.
The study aims to examine and gain insights into the portrayal and representation of mental health issues in selected contemporary
songs and explore how mental health is discussed and perceived in song lyrics. Additionally, through an in-depth examination of the
lyrical content of selected songs, the study aims to uncover nuanced expressions, metaphors, and narratives that musicians employ to
convey their experiences and perspectives on mental health.
Barete et al. 730/741

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Research Questions
This study explored how the selected contemporary song lyrics articulate mental health themes. Specifically, it sought to answer the
following question:
1. What are the overviews of the selected contemporary songs that articulate mental health themes?
2. How do the selected contemporary song lyrics articulate themes related to mental health?
Methodology
Research Design
The study uses descriptive qualitative research (Cresswell, 2014) to explore mental health themes in selected contemporary song lyrics.
The method allows for a thorough investigation into the complex narratives’ artists present. Additionally, the emphasis on narratives
aligns seamlessly with the study's theoretical framework rooted in the Narrative Psychology Theory by Sarbin (1986).
Sample and Sampling Design

The sample for the study comprises a purposively selected (Schreier, 2018) set of contemporary song lyrics that encapsulate a broad
spectrum of mental health themes across diverse musical genres and artist backgrounds. The sampling process met specific inclusion
and exclusion criteria (Campbell et al., 2020) to ensure relevance, contemporaneity, and variety. The inclusion criteria considered
contemporary relevance, limiting the selection to songs released within the last decade to capture the zeitgeist of current attitudes
toward mental health. The sample encompasses a range of musical genres, including but not limited to pop, rock, hip-hop, and indie,
to reflect the diverse ways artists express mental health themes. Established and emerging artists were deliberately included to provide
insights into various artistic perspectives.
To maintain a focus on contemporary representations (Gitelman, 2008; Bowker & Star, 2000), songs released more than ten years ago
(i.e., before 2013) were excluded from the sample. Non-English language songs were considered but were included if translations were
available, aligning with the study's emphasis on linguistic consistency for analysis. The sampling process involved an extensive
literature review to identify key themes and songs and utilizing online platforms and databases to compile an initial list of potential
songs. The sample size determination followed the saturation principle (Saunders et al., 2018), whereby the inclusion of additional
songs ceased when thematic saturation was achieved, signifying a comprehensive exploration of mental health themes.
Twelve (12) songs were included in the study, drawn from popular and niche domains, reflecting a comprehensive exploration of the
intersection between music and mental health. Pseudonyms were employed when referring to specific songs throughout the research
to safeguard the confidentiality of the songs and artists involved in this study. Using pseudonyms, the study aims to prevent the
unintended identification of artists and their works while facilitating a meaningful and insightful analysis of mental health themes in
contemporary song lyrics (Wiles et al., 2008).
Data Analysis
The study follows a qualitative approach to the data analysis, employing thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006). Initially, the
researchers immersed themselves in the entire song lyrics to gain a comprehensive understanding of the content and context, supported
by note-taking to document initial impressions. The coding process comprises open coding to generate preliminary codes capturing
salient features, emotions, or concepts, axial coding to organize and connect these codes systematically, and focused coding to
concentrate on the most significant and recurring mental health themes. Themes was developed iteratively through the review and
refinement of codes, ensuring a comprehensive representation of mental health expressions in the lyrics.
To enhance reliability, a subset of lyrics underwent independent coding by a second researcher with regular peer debriefing sessions.
The analysis interpreted themes within the context of the entire song, considering nuances, metaphors, and narrative structures. The
final reporting of the findings was presented in a narrative format, providing a cohesive and comprehensive account of the identified
mental health themes within contemporary song lyrics. The results were contextualized, offering a synthesized overview of the diverse
emotional landscapes, coping mechanisms, and societal reflections encapsulated in the lyrics (Kiger & Varpio, 2020).
Results And Discussion

The study explored insights derived from an exploration into contemporary song lyrics, focusing on how these selected songs articulate
themes related to mental health.
Overview of the Songs Used in the Study

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Matrix 1 furnishes a comprehensive overview of the chosen contemporary songs used in the study. The matrix serves as a structured
presentation of the selected songs.
Matrix 1. Overview of the songs used in the study.
Overview
S-1 The song delves into the painful experience of criticism, prompting the central character to wear a mask
to fit in, balancing the dilemma of revealing their true self and facing potential rejection. It explores
external criticism of appearances and the taxing dichotomy between a false identity and the fear of
rejection.
S-2 The song revolves around self-harm and suicide, depicting an initial struggle with self-confusion and
unexpressed emotions. It explores feelings of isolation, driven by a sense of misunderstood personality
and the exhaustion of sharing unrelatable problems.
S-3 The song delves into acceptance and suppleness amid adversity. It starts with the metaphor of concealing
emotional scars, akin to hiding wounds under long sleeves and wearing masks. As the narrative
progresses, it transforms into a journey of embracing scars proudly, symbolizing the purpose and
strength derived from life's trials.
S-4 The song delves into the struggles of self-acceptance, depicting a profound battle with self-loathing,
body image shaming, and the consequential journey toward self-harm. The narrative touches on the
contemplation of suicide as a perceived solution, accompanied by feelings of loneliness and isolation.
S-5 The song expresses a profound yearning for the presence of loved ones, conveying a heartfelt plea for
their companionship and support. Despite the somber feeling of loneliness, there is a hopeful anticipation
that the earnest request for their presence will be heard and answered positively.
S-6 The song portrays an abrupt breakup in a cohabiting relationship. The boy is content in a new
relationship, while the girl, acknowledging the reality of their separation, faces societal expectations of
lingering sadness.
S-7 The song reflects on the challenge of accepting the reality of being apart, juxtaposing it with gratitude
for the shared happy moments. Leading to emotional distance and a struggle to accept loss, manifested
through expressions of sorrow and tears.
S-8 The song emphasizes the importance of prioritizing one's well-being before assisting others. While
advocating for helping those in need, the narrative underscores the reciprocal nature of seeking self-help
and self-restoration.
S-9 The song explores self-denial and its consequences, depicting a person who refuses to accept their true
feelings, leading to inner turmoil and self-hatred. Despite revealed truths, the individual persists in
denying reality, creating emotional instability and mental disturbance.
S-10 The song delineates the internal conflict of an individual, presenting a facade of well-being while
grappling with personal challenges. The narrative captures the individual's endeavor to release the grip
of painful memories and reflects a sense of resignation in the individual's battle with life's adversities.
S-11 The song delves into facing anxiety and fear with resilience, emphasizing the inevitability of challenges.
It underscores the importance of self-awareness and steadfast perseverance, urging individuals not to
succumb to difficulties. Additionally, it advocates proudly showcasing past scars as symbols of strength
forged through overcoming adversity.
S-12 The song communicates a poignant desire for redemption from individual hardships, accompanied by
acknowledging personal shortcomings. It articulates a yearning for external support to navigate
emotional challenges, encapsulating the underlying sense of being unheard and invisible while fervently
seeking connection.
The selected songs used in the study form an intricate tapestry, interweaving to explore varied human experiences comprehensively.
Each song functions as a unique thread, contributing to a subtle comprehension of the manifold emotions, struggles, and aspirations
intrinsic to the human condition. This metaphorical tapestry symbolizes the complex interplay of psychological and emotional elements
in the song.
Themes Related to Mental Health in the Selected Contemporary Songs
Figure 1 depicts the thematic analysis chart connecting the mental health themes within contemporary songs. The analysis reveals the

Research Article
identification of three (3) primary overarching themes, namely personal struggle, mental health issues, and the narrative of overcoming
adversity. Within each thematic category, sub-themes have been documented and analyzed, exploring the intricate portrayals of mental
health within the songs.
Figure 1. Overview of the thematic chart on mental health themes in contemporary songs.
Personal Struggles – Personal Dilemmas
The thematic exploration revealed a predominant focus on Personal Dilemmas. Three (3) key themes emerge—identity crises, longing,
and self-neglect—exemplified in specific songs. For instance, S-1 illustrates the struggle with self-identity and the adoption of a
metaphorical mask for societal acceptance, extending these dilemmas to interpersonal relationships. S-12 and S-5 delve into the theme
of longing, expressing a yearning for intimate connections and a desire to escape life's challenges. Additionally, S-8 introduces the
dilemma of balancing altruism with self-neglect, exploring the nuanced interplay between helping others and compromising one's well-
being.
The prevalence of identity crises implies that artists often use their lyrics to express the challenges individuals face in understanding
and accepting themselves, which can be reflective of broader mental health concerns (Beech et al., 2016). The theme of longing,
encompassing a desire for connection and escape from life's difficulties, speaks to the emotional and psychological aspects of mental
health. The dilemma of altruism versus self-neglect introduces a nuanced perspective on the complexities of maintaining mental well-
being while navigating societal expectations and responsibilities (Do, 2022; Talmage et al., 2017).
Personal Struggles – Personal Challenges
Rooted in the appraisal process by which individuals discern the personal significance of stimuli or events (King, 2020), the theme on
personal challenges is notably characterized by two (2) sub-themes—self-harm and suicide. S-2 and S-4 encapsulate the theme of self-
harm, with the former portraying an emotional response to unexpressed distress, revealing the unheard feelings of those involved.
Meanwhile, S-4 delves into self-harm as a coping mechanism for struggles related to self-acceptance, narrating a poignant story of self-
hate and the absence of self-acceptance that culminates in self-harming behaviors. Beyond self-harm, S-2 further extends into the theme
of suicide, illustrating the potential progression from self-harm to a dire emotional response. The song elucidates a narrative wherein
the venting of negative emotions through self-harm becomes a precipitating factor for suicide, thereby providing a nuanced exploration
of the continuum of emotional responses to profound negative feelings.
The result suggests that contemporary songwriters address the complex and sensitive topic of emotional distress in their lyrics, shedding
light on mental health challenges that encompass self-harm and the grave consideration of suicide (Baker & Brown, 2016). For the
overarching study, delving into these emotional response themes provides an opportunity to explore how artists navigate and articulate
the intricacies of mental health struggles in their lyrics. It underscores the potential role of music in reflecting, expressing, and
potentially influencing perceptions of emotional distress and its outcomes (Carey, 2023).
Personal Struggles – Self-Hate
The theme of hate, characterized as an emotion, attitude, or sentiment (Martinez, 2022), is a recurring motif across all twelve (12)
songs, manifesting six (6) times in the corpus. Notably, these instances predominantly revolve around self-directed hatred. In S-4, the
narrative unfolds the internal struggle of self-acceptance, portraying self-hate as a catalyst for self-harming behaviors. Similarly, S-9,
particularly in the chorus, articulates a manifestation of self-directed hate, where the individual harbors aversion towards their self-
perception. Contextually, hate aligns with the overarching theme of Personal Struggle, as it encapsulates internal conflicts and

Research Article
challenges individuals encounter in self-perception and acceptance.

The result indicates that contemporary songwriters frequently engage with the complex emotional landscape of self-hate in their lyrics,
shedding light on mental health challenges related to self-perception and internal conflicts (Lenette et al., 2016). It underscores the role
of music in reflecting and expressing emotional states associated with self-hate, contributing to a nuanced understanding of the
psychological dimensions of mental health in song lyrics (Lopez-Regina, 2015).
Personal Struggles – Tiredness
The thematic exploration of tiredness, characterized by constant exhaustion, burnout, or a dearth of energy, emerges in three (3) minor
instances across the analyzed songs. In S-1, tiredness is depicted as the consequence of wearing a societal facade, elucidating the burden
of concealing genuine emotions. Similarly, S-2 portrays tiredness as the weariness of attempting to share one's burdens amidst a
perceived lack of understanding. S-10 articulates the fatigue incurred from enduring painful judgments of others. Tiredness is
contextualized as mental exhaustion resulting from prolonged exposure to chronic stressors.
The result suggests that contemporary songwriters frequently engage with the emotional and psychological consequences of prolonged
stressors, societal expectations, and interpersonal challenges in their lyrics. It underscores the role of music in reflecting and expressing
the psychological toll of societal pressures and interpersonal dynamics on individuals' mental well-being (Gustavson et al., 2021;
Jackson, 2015).
Personal Struggles – Identity
Identity, encompassing characteristics, qualities, beliefs, or expressions that differentiate one person or group from another, is a salient
thematic element within the corpus of twelve (12) songs (Cooper et al., 2017). In S-1, there is a nuanced exploration of the internal
conflict experienced by an individual torn between the desire to express their true self and the inclination to perpetuate a facade for
societal conformity. Additionally, S-11 delves into the theme of self-identity, portraying a person engaged in a quest for their authentic
self and grappling with the fundamental question of self-knowledge. Within this theme, both songs convey a poignant message about
the challenges inherent in searching for and understanding one's identity, depicting the struggles of maintaining a facade while yearning
to express oneself authentically.
The result suggests that contemporary songwriters often engage with the intricacies of individual identity and the associated struggles
in their lyrics, offering insights into the mental health dimensions of self-discovery and self-expression (Jackson, 2015). It underscores
the role of music in reflecting and expressing the psychological challenges individuals face in understanding and presenting their true
selves (Hense & McFerran, 2017; Lenette et al., 2016).
Mental Health – Depression
Three (3) songs in the collection delve into the theme of depression, expressing feelings of hopelessness, despair, and self-pity. In S-7,
sadness is portrayed as a surrogate for both longing and depression, offering an emotional release for the pent-up feelings of yearning.
S-10 narrates a scenario where internal chaos stifles self-expression, contributing to the overarching theme of depression, given the
connection between suppressed emotions and mental health challenges. Similarly, S-12 depicts despair and conveys the profound sense
of being unheard and invisible while desperately seeking connection.
The identified themes of hopelessness, despair, and self-pity in the selected songs underscore the prevalence of mental health struggles,
particularly depression, in the lyrical content of contemporary songs. The result implies that song lyrics serve as a reflective and
expressive medium for artists to articulate and convey complex emotions associated with mental health issues (Gustavson et al., 2021;
Kresovich et al., 2021).
Mental Health – Self-Harm
Self-harm is delineated as the deliberate act of an individual intentionally inflicting harm upon themselves. Within the corpus of twelve
(12) songs, two (2) distinct instances, namely S-2 and S-4, encapsulate the thematic element of self-harm. S-2 elucidates the narrative
of self-isolation and self-confusion, culminating in deliberate self-harm. The act is motivated, in part, by an inability to find relatability
in one's struggles, prompting a resort to self-harm. In S-4, the theme unfolds through the portrayal of self-doubt and the arduous struggle
for self-acceptance, ultimately leading to intentional self-harm. The thematic categorization of self-harm within these songs is justified
by the recurring depiction of the intentional infliction of harm upon oneself, underscoring the centrality of personal struggles inherent
in self-harm themes.
The result suggests that contemporary songwriters often engage with the sensitive and complex topic of intentional self-harm, offering
insights into the psychological dimensions associated with personal struggles, self-doubt, and coping mechanisms (Baker & Brown,
2016). It underscores the role of music in reflecting and expressing the emotional and psychological consequences of intentional self-
harm, shedding light on the factors contributing to such behaviors (Carey, 2023; Fenton & Kingsley, 2023).

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Mental Health – Self-Denial

Denial, characterized by the avoidance of acknowledging the reality of a situation to mitigate anxiety (Cherry, 2021), emerges as a
thematic element in three (3) distinct songs within the analyzed corpus. S-8 illustrates self-denial, wherein an individual, averse to
vulnerability, neglects personal pain while assisting others in their brokenness. Similarly, S-9 portrays a form of denial wherein the
individual masks genuine emotions, presenting a facade that everything is ostensibly okay. S-10 explores the feeling of denial
concerning the magnitude of a problem, depicting an inclination to evade discussion about the underlying issues.
The result suggests that contemporary songwriters frequently engage with the psychological defense mechanism of denial in their
lyrics, offering insights into its role in emotional responses and mental health representation. It underscores the role of music in
reflecting and expressing the psychological dynamics of denial, offering nuanced insights into how individuals grapple with avoiding
negative feelings and confronting challenging realities (Lui & Li, 2023; Baker & Brown, 2016).
Mental Health – Anxiety
Anxiety is defined as an emotional state marked by tension, apprehensive thoughts, and physiological changes (Levitt, 2015). This
theme is notably characterized by one sub-theme—Fear. Fear, characterized as an unpleasant emotion or thought from anticipating
danger, pain, or adversity (Hebb, 1946), manifests as a thematic element in two (2) of the twelve (12) analyzed songs. S-10 illustrates
the theme of fear through a person's apprehension about discussing their past and reluctance to reveal personal secrets to others.
Similarly, S-11 delves into the theme of fear, highlighting anxieties and concerns about potential problems. Both instances underscore
the psychological dimensions of fear within the context of mental health issues, where fear becomes intricately entwined with the
internal challenges and conflicts of the self.
The result suggests that contemporary songwriters often address the emotional complexities of fear and its intersection with mental
health challenges in their lyrics (Lenette et al.,2016). It underscores the role of music in reflecting and expressing the anxieties and
apprehensions associated with personal struggles and internal conflicts (Hense & McFerran, 2017).
Mental Health – Longing
Longing, characterized as a profound desire for something or someone (Кhusanbayeva & Djamaldinova, 2020), is a thematic element
in three (3) of the twelve (12) analyzed songs. S-5 portrays the yearning for someone to heed the protagonist's plea, emphasizing a deep
emotional longing. In S-7, the theme unfolds through the illustration of a specific woman's intense desire for a person with whom she
was once connected. Additionally, S-12 conveys a sense of longing, as the central character expresses a yearning for assistance and
deliverance from personal struggles. The classification of longing as a personal struggle is rooted in its inherent connection to the self,
encompassing desires and yearnings that contribute to the broader theme of personal struggles.
The result suggests that contemporary songwriters often engage with the complex emotional state of longing and its potential
connections to mental health (Lenette et al., 2016). The acknowledgment of longing as a personal struggle underscores its role in
internal conflicts and aspirations, contributing to a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between emotional states and
mental health representation in contemporary music (Simanjuntak & Lumingkewas, 2022; Hense & McFerran, 2017).
Overcoming Adversities – Resilience
One of the examined songs substantively corresponds to the thematic domain of resiliency. Specifically, S-11 recounts a narrative
characterized by a courageous confrontation of anxiety and fear. The contextual nuances within the song emphasize the attitude of
persevering in the face of adversity, encapsulated by the notion of steadfastness towards aspects that induce fear. The narrative
encapsulates an ongoing internal struggle, portraying a continuous process of overcoming adversities.
The results provide insights into how artists convey coping mechanisms, fortitude, and the transformative potential of confronting and
overcoming mental health difficulties through their lyrics (Myers-Coffman et al., 2020). It suggests that amidst expressions of mental
health struggles, contemporary songwriters also incorporate narratives of strength and resilience in their lyrics (Lenette et al., 2016).
Including such themes implies that songs can serve as a platform for promoting a positive and empowering perspective on mental
health.
Overcoming Adversities
Among the examined songs, only S-3 addresses the theme of overcoming adversities. The song illustrates the transformative process
of accepting scars, symbolic of pain and harsh realities, leading to healing. The narrative emphasizes that proudly displaying these
scars signifies the successful subjugation of struggles and pains through self-acceptance.
The finding suggests that contemporary songwriters also incorporate narratives of resilience and healing in their lyrics amidst
expressions of mental health struggles. Including such a theme implies that songs can serve as a means to convey the challenges
associated with mental health and the transformative journey toward overcoming these challenges (Baker et al., 2018; Lenette et al.,

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2016).
Overcoming Adversities – Perseverance
Within the twelve (12) examined songs, the theme of perseverance subtly surfaces in S-3, S-9, and S-11. S-3 and S-11 articulate
narratives centered on past marks and scars, symbolic representations of resilience and strength in confronting personal challenges and
adversities. These songs depict characters who embody perseverance amid difficulties, fear, and pain. In contrast, S-9 explores the
theme through the lens of courage, emphasizing the act of ceasing pretense and bravely acknowledging reality. The characters portrayed
in these songs exemplify perseverance in acknowledging, confronting, and enduring the realities of life, signifying strength and
independence through the visible scars of their journeys.
The result suggests that contemporary songwriters engage with the theme of perseverance as it relates to mental health, portraying the
nuanced dynamics of endurance, resilience, and transformative experiences in the face of challenges (Lenette et al., 2016). It
underscores the role of music in reflecting and expressing the psychological and emotional dimensions of perseverance amid
difficulties, fear, and pain (Jackson, 2015).
Conclusion
In exploring mental health themes within selected contemporary song lyrics, a synthesis of diverse themes emerges across twelve (12)
analyzed songs. The lyrics delve into personal struggles, encompassing identity crises, dilemmas, and self-neglect, revealing the
intricate impact of internal conflicts on relationships and self-perception. Themes such as self-harm portray the deliberate infliction of
pain as a coping mechanism, navigating the complex interplay of self-hate, self-acceptance, and the pursuit of an idealized self.
Resilience surfaces as a counterpoint, highlighting the triumph over adversities and the acceptance of scars as healing symbols.
Fear and anxiety intertwine with mental health, capturing the emotional complexities associated with confronting personal problems
and an uncertain future. Longing introduces nuanced layers, depicting desires and yearnings that contribute to exploring mental well-
being. Music emerges as a reflective and expressive medium, providing insights into emotional struggles, coping mechanisms, and
transformative journeys, ultimately enriching our understanding of the intricate landscape of mental health in contemporary culture.
In conclusion, recognizing music as a medium for expressing and articulating mental health experiences underscores its significance
as a cultural touchstone. The themes identified reflect how individuals grapple with and navigate their mental states, resonating with
listeners who may find solace, understanding, or connection in the shared narratives. The synthesis of these themes enriches the broader
discourse on mental health representation in music, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and addressing the multifaceted
dimensions of mental well-being within contemporary culture.
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Research Article
Affiliations and Corresponding Information
Melvin G. Barete
San Isidro College – Philippines
Jay B. Albarico
Mark Q. Auditor
Esrael P. Balilaon
Mark Louie L. Budias
Bryan Kim C. Dajero
Rex Jeb Q. Jamisolamin
Edgar R. Lumandas
Reangay A. Obeso
Francis Angelo B. Piscos
Fremativo A. Vergara
Rovic M. Villalon
Evan P. Taja-on

Unlocking The Lyrics: Exploring The Themes of Mental Health in Selected Contemporary Song

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Unlocking The Lyrics: Exploring The Themes of Mental Health in Selected Contemporary Song

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UNLOCKING THE LYRICS: EXPLORING THE THEMES

OF MENTAL HEALTH IN SELECTED

PSYCHOLOGY AND EDUCATION: A MULTIDISCIPLINARY JOURNAL

Unlocking the Lyrics: Exploring the Themes of Mental Health in Selected

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Sample and Sampling Design

Results And Discussion

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Themes Related to Mental Health in the Selected Contemporary Songs

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challenges individuals encounter in self-perception and acceptance.

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Mental Health – Self-Denial

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Affiliations and Corresponding Information

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