Overcoming the Blues: Top 50 Songs About Anxiety Across Genres

Anxiety is a common emotion that affects millions of people around the world.

It can manifest as worry, fear, nervousness, or panic, and it can interfere with your daily life and well-being.

Sometimes, anxiety can be hard to cope with, especially when you feel alone or misunderstood.

But you are not alone. Many artists and musicians have experienced anxiety and expressed it through their songs.

Listening to songs about anxiety can help you feel less isolated and more connected to others who share your struggles.

Music can also be therapeutic, as it can calm your mind, soothe your emotions, and inspire you to overcome your challenges.

In this article, we have compiled a list of 50 songs about anxiety across different genres, from rock to rap, from pop to country.

These songs capture various aspects of anxiety, such as overthinking, panic attacks, avoidance, irrational fears, and intrusive thoughts.

Whether you need a song to relate to your feelings, to motivate you to face your fears, or to comfort you in times of distress, you will find something for you in this list.

Rock Songs About Anxiety

Rock music is known for its loud, energetic, and rebellious sound. But rock music can also express vulnerability, pain, and frustration that come with anxiety. Here are some rock songs that describe what it’s like to live with anxiety.

1. “Numb” by Linkin Park

This song is about feeling trapped by the expectations of others and losing your sense of identity.

The singer feels numb and disconnected from himself and the world around him. He wants to break free from the pressure and be himself, but he doesn’t know how.

2. “Basket Case” by Green Day

This song is about having panic attacks and feeling paranoid and restless. The singer wonders if he is going crazy or if he has a mental disorder. He feels like he is losing control and needs help.

3. “Breathe (2 AM)” by Anna Nalick

This song is about dealing with stressful situations and trying to cope with them.

The singer tells herself to breathe and stay calm, even when things seem overwhelming.

She also acknowledges that she can’t control everything and that she has to let go of some things.

4. “Unwell” by Matchbox Twenty

This song is about feeling unwell mentally and emotionally. The singer feels like he doesn’t fit in and that people are judging him.

He admits that he has some issues and that he is not perfect, but he also hopes that things will get better someday.

5. “People Are Strange” by The Doors

This classic rock song was released as part of their album, Strange Days. It reflects the feelings of social anxiety and alienation that many people experience.

The lyrics say: “People are strange when you’re a stranger / Faces look ugly when you’re alone / Women seem wicked when you’re unwanted / Streets are uneven when you’re down.”

It suggests that people are strange when you’re a stranger and that faces look ugly when you’re alone.

6. “Rose-Colored Boy” by Paramore

“Rose-Colored Boy” by Paramore is a catchy rock tune about the pressure to maintain a positive outlook despite struggling with anxiety.

The song emphasizes the importance of allowing oneself to feel negative emotions and finding healthier ways to cope.

Pop Songs About Anxiety

Pop music is popular for its catchy, upbeat, and danceable tunes. But pop music can also tackle serious topics like anxiety and mental health. Here are some pop songs that address anxiety in different ways.

7. “Lovely” by Billie Eilish with Khalid (2018)

This song features on the soundtrack of the TV series 13 Reasons Why.

It expresses the feelings of loneliness, hopelessness, and isolation that often accompany anxiety and depression.

The lyrics say: “Isn’t it lovely, all alone? / Heart made of glass, my mind of stone / Tear me to pieces, skin to bone / Hello, welcome home.”

8. “Issues” by Julia Michaels

This song is about having issues and insecurities that affect your relationships.

The singer admits that she has anxiety and that she can be difficult to love sometimes.

But she also loves her partner deeply and asks him to stay with her despite her flaws.

9. “Anxiety” by Selena Gomez and Julia Michaels

This song is a collaboration between two pop stars who have both opened up about their struggles with anxiety.

They sing about how anxiety affects their daily lives, from sleeping to socializing.

They also express their frustration with people who don’t understand their condition and try to minimize it.

Anxiety was released on January 24, 2019 as part of Julia Michaels’ EP Inner Monologue Part 1.

The lyrics say: “My friends, they wanna take me to the movies / I tell ’em to fuck off, I’m holding hands with my depression / And right when I think I’ve overcome it / Anxiety starts kicking in to teach that shit a lesson.”

10. “Breathin” by Ariana Grande

This song is about having panic attacks and feeling suffocated by anxiety.

The singer shares her coping strategy of breathing deeply and slowly to calm herself down.

She also reminds herself that she just has to keep on breathing and that everything will be alright.

“Some days, things just take way too much of my energy / I look up and the whole room’s spinning / You take my cares away / I can so overcomplicate, people tell me to medicate / Feel my blood runnin’, swear the sky’s fallin’ / How do I know if this shit’s fabricated? / Time goes by and I can’t control my mind / Don’t know what else to try, but you tell me every time / Just keep breathin’ and breathin’ and breathin’ and breathin’ / And oh, I gotta keep, keep on breathin’”

11. “Scared to Be Lonely” by Martin Garrix and Dua Lipa

This song is about staying in a relationship out of fear of being alone. The singers question if they really love each other or if they are just afraid of loneliness.

They wonder if they are holding on to something that is not good for them.

12. “bury a friend” by Billie Eilish (2019)

This song was released as part of her debut album, When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?

It explores the dark side of her mind and the monsters that haunt her dreams.

The lyrics say, “What do you want from me? Why don’t you run from me? / What are you wondering? What do you know? / Why aren’t you scared of me? Why do you care for me? / When we all fall asleep, where do we go?”

13. “Disturbia” by Rihanna (2008)

This song was released as the third single from the reissue of her album Good Girl Gone Bad.

It is a dance-pop song that describes the feeling of being trapped in a state of fear, paranoia, and confusion.

The lyrics say: “What’s wrong with me? / Why do I feel like this? / I’m going crazy now / No more gas in the rig / Can’t even get it started / Nothing heard, nothing said / Can’t even speak about it / On my life, on my head.”

14. “In My Blood” by Shawn Mendes (2018)

This pop rock song is about the singer’s determination to overcome his anxiety and depression.

The lyrics reveal his vulnerability and honesty, as he admits that he feels like giving up sometimes.

But he also says that it’s not in his blood to quit and that he will keep fighting for his happiness.

“Help me, it’s like the walls are caving in / Sometimes I feel like giving up but I just can’t / It isn’t in my blood / Laying on the bathroom floor feeling nothing / I’m overwhelmed and insecure give me something / I could take to ease my mind slowly / Just have a drink and you’ll feel better / Just take her home and you’ll feel better / Keep telling me that it gets better / Does it ever?”

15. “I Can’t Breathe” by Bea Miller

Bea Miller’s “I Can’t Breathe” is a powerful ballad about feeling trapped and suffocated by anxiety.

The song highlights the singer’s desire to return to a time when they felt more in control and at peace with themselves.

16. Anxiety” by Blackbear

This hip hop song is about the singer’s relationship problems caused by his anxiety.

The lyrics reveal how anxiety affects his mood, appetite, sleep, and self-confidence.

The singer says that his lover gives him anxiety, but he still loves her.

The lyrics say:“Every time you cross my mind you get right under my skin / Am I crazy out my mind? The situation I’m in / And it gets harder just to breathe, feel like the walls are closing in / But all I need is some closure, yeah / I can’t eat, can’t sleep, I get anxiety when you’re not here with me / Stop playing games girl you’re pushing me away”

Rap Songs About Anxiety

Rap music is known for its fast-paced, rhythmic, and rhyming lyrics. Rap music can also be a powerful medium for expressing personal stories and emotions, including anxiety.

Here are some rap songs that explore anxiety from different perspectives.

17. “1-800-273-8255” by Logic, Alessia Cara, and Khalid

This song is named after the phone number of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

It is a song about feeling suicidal and reaching out for help. The singers portray the conversation between a caller who is struggling with anxiety and depression and a counselor who offers support and hope.

18. “u” by Kendrick Lamar

U is about self-hatred and guilt that stem from anxiety. Kendrick Lamar criticizes himself for his failures and mistakes, and blames himself for the problems of his family and friends. He feels like he is worthless and that he has let everyone down.

19. “Mockingbird” by Eminem

This song is about trying to comfort his daughter who is affected by his divorce and his fame.

The rapper apologizes for not being there for her and for causing her pain. He tells her that he loves her and that he will always protect her.

20. “The Blacker the Berry” by Kendrick Lamar

This song is about racial anxiety and anger that result from discrimination and oppression.

The rapper expresses his pride in his black identity, but also his frustration with the injustice and violence that he faces. He also confronts his own hypocrisy and internalized racism.

21. “Reborn” by Kanye West and Kid Cudi // Kids See Ghost (2018)

This song was released as part of his collaborative album with Kid Cudi, Kids See Ghosts.

It expresses the hope and resilience that Kanye and Cudi have found after overcoming their mental health struggles and addiction issues.

The lyrics say: “I had my issues, ain’t that much I could do / Peace is somethin’ that starts with me (with me) / At times, wonder my purpose / Easy then to feel worthless / But peace is somethin’ that starts with me (with me, with me).”

22. “Fake Smiles” by Phora

In “Fake Smiles,” rapper Phora addresses the necessity of hiding one’s true emotions and putting on a false front to cope with anxiety.

The song explores the difficulty of maintaining an outward appearance of happiness while struggling with inner turmoil.

23. “Righteous” by Juice WRLD

“Righteous” by Juice WRLD is a rap song that addresses the struggles of fame and addiction, and the anxiety that can accompany these issues.

The lyrics express the feelings of being overwhelmed and weighed down by anxiety and the desire for relief.

24. “Anxiety” by Bmike

Bmike’s “Anxiety” offers an in-depth, personal look at the challenges of seeking professional help and finding the right treatment for anxiety.

The song addresses the frustration of talk therapy not providing immediate relief and the need for increased awareness and support for mental health concerns.

25. “Short Ride” by Lewis Fitzgerald

This song is an honest and unapologetic reflection of the singer’s experiences of heartbreak, loss, and suicidal thoughts. The addition of wewantwraiths, a rising star in the Midlands rap scene, adds a refreshing vulnerability to the track, making it a standout collaboration that fans won’t want to miss.

Country Songs About Anxiety

Country music is known for its storytelling, sincerity, and simplicity. Country music can also touch on various issues and challenges that people face, such as anxiety. Here are some country songs that relate to anxiety in different ways.

26. “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack

This song is about encouraging someone to live their life to the fullest and not let fear hold them back.

The singer hopes that the person she loves will always be brave, optimistic, and adventurous. She hopes that they will always choose to dance, even when things get hard.

27. “The House That Built Me” by Miranda Lambert

This song is about returning to your childhood home and remembering where you came from.

The singer feels lost and broken, and she hopes that going back to her roots will help her heal. She revisits the memories and the lessons that shaped her as a person.

28. “You Should Be Here” by Cole Swindell

This song is about missing someone who has passed away and wishing they were still alive.

The singer describes a moment of celebration and joy, but he feels incomplete without the person he loves. He imagines how they would react if they were there with him.

29. “Humble and Kind” by Tim McGraw

This song is about giving advice to someone who is growing up and facing the world.

The singer tells them to always be humble and kind, no matter what life throws at them. He also tells them to appreciate the simple things in life, to help others, and to never give up.

R&B Songs About Anxiety

R&B songs about anxiety can capture the feelings and thoughts of someone who is dealing with anxiety, as well as offer comfort, support, or hope to the listeners who may be going through similar situations.

30. “Drew Barrymore” by SZA (2017)

This song was released as the lead single from SZA’s debut album Ctrl.

It is a vulnerable and honest confession of low self-esteem and insecurity in a relationship, where SZA feels like she is not enough for her partner.

The lyrics say: “I get so lonely I forget what I’m worth / We get so lonely we pretend that this works / I’m so ashamed of myself think I need therapy / I’m sorry I’m not more attractive / I’m sorry I’m not more ladylike / I’m sorry I don’t shave my legs at night.”

31. “Nights” by Frank Ocean (2016)

This song was released as part of his album Blonde. It explores the themes of loneliness, insomnia, addiction, and nostalgia that Frank Ocean experiences during the night time. The lyrics say: “Every night fucks every day up / Every day patches the night up / On God you should match it, it’s that KO / No white lighters til I fuck my 28th up.”

32. “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd (2019)

This song was released as part of his album After Hours. It depicts the loneliness and desperation that The Weeknd feels as he tries to reconnect with his ex-lover, whom he sees as the only source of happiness in his life.

The lyrics say: “I’ve been tryna call / I’ve been on my own for long enough / Maybe you can show me how to love, maybe / I’m going through withdrawals / You don’t even have to do too much / You can turn me on with just a touch, baby.“

33. “Call Out My Name” by The Weeknd (2018)

This song was released as part of his EP My Dear Melancholy,. It expresses the pain and regret that The Weeknd feels after his breakup with Selena Gomez, whom he claims he almost donated a kidney to.

The lyrics say: “I said I didn’t feel nothing baby, but I lied / I almost cut a piece of myself for your life / Guess I was just another pit stop / ‘Til you made up your mind / You just wasted my time.”

Other Genres of Songs About Anxiety

34. “The Fear” by The Shins (2017)

This song was released on March 10, 2017 as part of their album Heartworms.

It is a folk-rock song that expresses the regret and sadness of missing an opportunity for a relationship due to fear and anxiety.

The lyrics say: “The fear I feel fear / Of all the stupid things / A man could feel / While his freedom rings / He squanders the deal / What am I, blind? / What took me this long? / Can we hit rewind / On somebody’s magic bong?”

35. “Angel on Fire” by Halsey (2017)

This song was released as part of her second album, Hopeless Fountain Kingdom.

It is a pop-rock song that depicts the loss of confidence and popularity that Halsey feels as a singer and a person.

She suffers from social anxiety and hides away from the spotlight, feeling like she has lost her spark.

The lyrics say: “I’m standin’ in the ashes of who I used to be / And I’m faded away, you know, I used to be on fire / And I’m standin’ in the ashes of who I used to be / And I’m faded away, you know, I used to be on fire.”

36. “Human” by Christina Perri (2013) 

This song was released as the lead single from her album Head or Heart.

It is a power ballad that expresses the vulnerability and limitations of being human, especially in a relationship where one feels pressured to be perfect and do everything for the other person.

The lyrics say: “I can hold it back just for one night / I can be the one you want / I can fake a smile / I can force a laugh / I can dance and play the part / If that’s what you ask / Give you all I am / But I’m only human.”

37. “Map of the Problematique” by Muse (2006)

This song was released as part of their album Black Holes and Revelations.

It is an alternative rock song that features elements of electronic music and space rock.

It portrays the loneliness and isolation that the singer feels as he struggles to find meaning and happiness in his life.

He wonders if he can ever escape his fears and doubts and if he can ever find someone who understands him. 

The lyrics say: “Fear and panic in the air / I want to be free / From desolation and despair / And I feel like everything I saw / Is being swept away / When I refuse to let you go / I can’t get it right / Get it right / Since I met you / Loneliness be over / When will this loneliness be over?”

The title is a reference to a 1972 book called The Limits to Growth and the Club of Rome think-tank, who would create a “map of the problematique” detailing the “global problematique” – a set of likely challenges the world might face in the near future.

38. “jealousy, jealousy” by Olivia Rodrigo (2021)

Olivia Rodrigo’s “jealousy, jealousy” is a song that explores the negative effects of social media on mental health and self-esteem. 

Released as part of her debut album SOUR, the song reflects Olivia’s personal struggles with comparing herself to others online and feeling insecure about her own life. 

The lyrics express her frustration and envy towards people who seem to have it all:

“And I see everyone gettin’ all the things I want / I’m happy for them, but then again, I’m not / Just cool vintage clothes and vacation photos / I can’t stand it.” 

The song also acknowledges the unrealistic standards and distorted reality that social media can create:

“I know their beauty’s not my lack / But it feels like that weight is on my back / And I can’t let it go.” 

The chorus repeats the phrase “com-comparison is killin’ me slowly,” highlighting how anxiety and jealousy can consume one’s mind and happiness.

39. “Stop Crying Your Heart Out” by Oasis (2017)

This song was released as part of their album Heathen Chemistry. It offers a message of hope and encouragement to anyone who is feeling depressed or hopeless.

The lyrics say: “Hold up / Hold on / Don’t be scared / You’ll never change what’s been and gone / May your smile (may your smile) / Shine on (shine on) / Don’t be scared (don’t be scared) / Your destiny may keep you warm.”

40. “Motion Sickness” by Phoebe Bridgers (2017)

This is a song that reveals the pain and anger of being in a toxic relationship with an older man. Released by Dead Oceans as the second single from her debut studio album, Stranger in the Alps. 

The lyrics describe Bridgers’ conflicting feelings of hatred and longing for her ex-lover, who was abusive and manipulative:

“I hate you for what you did / And I miss you like a little kid / I faked it every time, but that’s alright / I can hardly feel anything / I hardly feel anything at all.”

The song also exposes his hypocrisy and arrogance: “Hey, why do you sing with an English accent? / I guess it’s too late to change it now / You know I’m never gonna let you have it / But I will try to drown you out.”

The chorus repeats the phrase “emotional motion sickness“, implying that Bridgers feels nauseous and dizzy from the emotional turmoil he caused her. 

The song is a personal and cathartic expression of the trauma that Bridgers experienced in her relationship. 

41. “Don’t Panic” by Coldplay

This song is from the alternative rock genre, and it is about not panicking when things go wrong.

The singer tries to reassure himself and his partner that everything will be fine, even when the world seems chaotic and scary. He tells them to look at the stars and remember that they are not alone.

42. “Inner Demons” by Julia Brennan

Julia Brennan’s “Inner Demons” is a powerful indie song about the battle against the dark forces of anxiety.

The lyrics describe the struggle to regain control over one’s life and the need for help in overcoming the demons within.

43. “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley

This song is from the reggae genre, and it is about having a positive attitude and not worrying about anything.

The singer hears three little birds singing a message of hope and peace. He tells himself not to worry, because every little thing is going to be alright.

44. “Silence” by Marshmello ft. Khalid (2017)

“Silence” by Marshmello and Khalid is an electronic song that discusses the anxiety that can arise from difficulties in forming relationships.

The lyrics express the discomfort and fear of taking the next step in developing a connection with someone else.

45. “Home” by Bertie Newman (2023)

This song is an introspective acoustic folk track that beautifully encapsulates the intricate emotions that arise when encountering someone truly special, while simultaneously exploring the inner complications that accompany such a connection.

46. “Euphoria” by Kadebostany (2023)

The song’s lyrics delve into the exhilarating yet tormenting emotions tied to love and longing.

The chorus, “It started with euphoria / But became your insomnia,” encapsulates the essence of the track, perfectly portraying the intoxicating highs and sleepless lows that love can bring. 

47. “fell in love” by dee holt (2023)

Fell in love is a raw and honest reflection on the aftermath of a breakup. dee holt sings about the feelings of comfort and safety that she once felt with her partner, and the sense of loss and longing that comes with their absence.

48. “2,3” by IMANI (2023)

2,3 is a highly relatable and emotional track that offers a deep dive into the turbulent waters of a toxic relationship and how self-love can serve as a lifeboat. It is a candid expression of frustration, anger, and empowerment.

49. “Snooze” by SZA (2017)

Snooze is a smooth and sultry R&B ballad about a romantic relationship with a lover so deep that she’d risk everything for him despite the dangers and consequences. It expresses a fear of losing the lover or missing out on their moments together, which could indicate attachment anxiety or a fear of abandonment.

50. “Take From Me” by KID TRAVIS (2022)

Take from me is an infectious and relatable track about the downright frustrating feeling of knowing someone you love doesn’t want you. He flips heartbreak on the tune despite the sad premise of the lyrics.

Conclusion

As Bob Marley once sang, “Don’t worry about a thing, ’cause every little thing gonna be alright.”

Anxiety is a thing that many people worry about, but it doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying life and music.

Music is a powerful tool that can help you cope with anxiety in various ways. It can help you express your feelings, connect with others, relax your mind, inspire you to change, or simply distract you from your worries.

In this article, we have shared 50 songs about anxiety across different genres that you can listen to when you need some music therapy.

These songs capture various aspects of anxiety, such as overthinking, panic attacks, avoidance, irrational fears, and intrusive thoughts.

Whether you need a song to relate to your feelings, to motivate you to face your fears, or to comfort you in times of distress, you will find something for you in this list.

But don’t just take our word for it. Try listening to these songs yourself and see how they make you feel. Y

ou might discover new songs that resonate with you or rediscover old favorites that have new meanings for you.

You might also want to create your own playlist of songs about anxiety that suit your mood and preferences.

Remember, you are not alone in your struggle with anxiety. There are many people who understand what you are going through and who are here to support you.

Music is one of them. So don’t be afraid to turn up the volume and sing along. Music can be your friend and ally in overcoming the blues.

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