Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can be triggered by a traumatic event.
It can be difficult to cope with the symptoms of PTSD, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and intense feelings of distress.
To help alleviate these symptoms, many people find comfort in music.
This article will explore 15 of the best songs about PTSD and how they can help provide solace to those who are suffering.
From the powerful lyrics of Kesha’s “Praying” to the haunting melody of The Cranberries’ “Zombie,” these songs offer insight into the struggle of PTSD and offer comfort to those who are struggling.
1. “Praying” by Kesha
The Grammy-nominated single “Praying” by Kesha speaks to the struggles of living with PTSD, capturing the emotional turmoil of the condition in a way that is both powerful and poignant.
Through her lyrics, Kesha conveys her own feelings of pain, sorrow, and resilience in the face of her trauma.
The song’s haunting melody and powerful chorus further emphasize the raw emotion and depth of her experience.
It is a powerful anthem for anyone suffering from PTSD, providing a voice to those who are often unable to express their own pain.
2. “Til It Happens To You” by Lady Gaga
Released in 2015, Lady Gaga‘s “Til It Happens To You” offers a powerful and emotional exploration of the psychological consequences of experiencing trauma.
The song is a poignant reminder of the lasting effects of PTSD, emphasizing how it can affect day-to-day life.
Lady Gaga’s lyrics are direct, highlighting the struggles of those living with the disorder and the need for support and understanding.
Her raw performance further conveys the pain and sorrow of her message, creating a powerful impact.
Through the song, Lady Gaga offers an empathetic perspective on the experience of PTSD, providing a voice for survivors.
3. “Zombie” by The Cranberries
Written in 1994, “Zombie” by The Cranberries takes a poignant look at the violence of the Irish conflict.
The song’s lyrics focus on the devastating effects of war on civilians, with a particular emphasis on the psychological trauma caused by violence.
Its chorus expresses a powerful message of understanding and solidarity with the victims: ‘In your head, in your head, they are crying’.
Musically, the song is built on an intense and relentless rhythm section, combined with a simple yet memorable melody.
The combination of lyrical and musical elements creates a powerful and emotive experience that speaks to the audience of the song’s underlying message.
4. “Keep Breathing” by Ingrid Michaelson
Inspired by her own battle with anxiety, Ingrid Michaelson’s song “Keep Breathing” encourages listeners to persevere through difficult times.
The track’s lyrics emphasize the importance of finding strength and hope in the face of adversity.
This message of resilience resonates strongly with those struggling with PTSD, creating a sense of empowerment and courage.
The track’s uplifting melody and hopeful lyrics are a reminder that no matter how difficult life becomes, there is always something to be grateful for.
5. “Brave” by Sara Bareilles
Sara Bareilles’ empowering anthem “Brave” serves as an anthem of self-acceptance and self-love.
Its lyrics are a reminder for those suffering from PTSD that it is possible to move forward with strength and resilience.
The song promotes the idea of having courage in the face of adversity and serves as a reminder that one’s own inner strength can be enough to overcome whatever obstacles life throws at them.
The song is uplifting and inspiring, providing an empowering message of hope and strength.
6. “Numb” by Linkin Park
Continuing with the discussion of songs about PTSD, the next song to be discussed is “Numb” by Linkin Park.
The lyrics of this song depict the struggles of living with PTSD, especially in regard to numbing emotions and feeling disconnected from the world.
The chorus states the singer’s wish to be ‘numb’ and ‘unable to feel.’
This is a common symptom of PTSD, as the sufferer attempts to distance themselves from their traumatic memories.
The song also addresses the struggles of trying to maintain strong relationships while living with PTSD.
7. “Recovery” by James Arthur
Another song about PTSD is “Recovery” by James Arthur, which offers a message of hope and resilience in the face of trauma.
Arthur’s lyrics depict the struggles of coming to terms with the effects of trauma, while also conveying the message that it is possible to find peace and strength in the process of healing.
The song’s upbeat sound combined with its meaningful lyrics make it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a song to help them cope with the aftermath of PTSD.
Arthur’s unique blend of powerful lyrics and encouraging message make “Recovery” a must-listen for anyone dealing with the effects of PTSD.
8. “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child
Destiny’s Child’s song “Survivor” is an uplifting anthem of resilience, with lyrics that emphasize the power of the human spirit in the face of trauma.
The song’s message of hope is bolstered by its upbeat tempo and powerful chorus.
The lines, “I’m a survivor, I’m not gon’ give up, I’m not gon’ stop, I’m gon’ work harder”, set the tone for the rest of the song, conveying the idea that persistence and determination are key to overcoming difficult life experiences.
The song’s positive message and uplifting tone serve as a source of inspiration for those struggling with PTSD.
9. “Silence” by Marshmello
Marshmello’s song “Silence” is a melancholic ballad that uses the power of music to express feelings of loneliness and heartache.
It is a subtle yet powerful reminder of the struggles of those dealing with PTSD.
The gentle yet haunting sound of the piano blends with the softness of Marshmello’s voice to create a feeling of sadness and desolation.
The lyrics, which are full of metaphors, evoke a sense of despair and longing.
This song serves as a catharsis for those going through the same pain and is an emotionally charged reminder of the power of music to heal.
10. “Jesus, Take The Wheel” by Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood’s song “Jesus, Take The Wheel” is an uplifting country-pop ballad that speaks to the power of faith and redemption.
Featuring a simplistic yet poignant melody, the song is centered around the protagonist’s struggles with faith, choosing to entrust their fate to Jesus as they face a crossroads in their life.
The lyrics are filled with imagery of being in a dark place, yet ultimately surrendering to the hope of the savior.
Using a combination of country, pop, and gospel musical styles, the song is a powerful testament to the healing power of faith.
11. “A Little Bit Stronger” by Sara Evans
Sara Evans’ song “A Little Bit Stronger” is an uplifting country-pop anthem about resilience and the journey to self-empowerment.
The lyrics emphasize the importance of inner strength in coping with pain and the struggle to move forward.
Evans conveys a hopeful message about finding courage and the power of self-confidence in the face of adversity.
The uplifting and empowering message is particularly relevant for individuals suffering from PTSD, as it encourages them to find strength in difficult times and to remain resilient.
12. “Safe & Sound” by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s song “Safe & Sound” is a beautiful ballad about finding comfort in moments of uncertainty.
The song speaks to the struggles of PTSD, with lyrics that emphasize the importance of finding solace in the present moment.
Swift’s melodic and delicate vocals provide a gentleness to the track that captures the emotive weight of the message.
Instrumentally, the song features a sparse arrangement that emphasizes the vocals, allowing the lyrics to take center stage.
Overall, it is a powerful and touching song that speaks to the healing power of resilience.
13. “Unwell” by Matchbox Twenty
The transition from Taylor Swift’s “Safe & Sound” to Matchbox Twenty’s “Unwell” demonstrates a shift in messaging from a sense of hope and safety to a sense of unease and anxiety.
“Unwell” is a poignant song about the struggles of living with PTSD.
Through its lyrics, it conveys a sense of being overwhelmed, isolated, and exhausted.
The song captures the despair and helplessness felt by many people suffering from PTSD.
Musically, the song features sparse instrumentation and a melancholy atmosphere, which helps to convey the emotion of the lyrics.
14. “Heavy” by Linkin Park
Linkin Park’s “Heavy” is a song about the struggles of living with depression and anxiety.
It expresses the difficulty of managing symptoms of mental illness, such as feeling overwhelmed and weighed down by life’s pressures.
The lyrics discuss how feelings of emptiness, loneliness, and despair can lead to thoughts of suicide.
The song offers solace to those who suffer from PTSD, showing that while it can be difficult to navigate, it is possible to find hope and strength to keep going.
The song’s uplifting message provides much-needed comfort and support for those suffering from PTSD.
15. “Panic Room” by Silent Planet
Silent Planet’s “Panic Room” is a powerful exploration of the effects of mental illness, particularly anxiety.
The song delves into the despair and the panic of the narrator, who is struggling to cope with the realities of their mental illness.
The lyrics focus on the feeling of being trapped in one’s own mind and the internal struggle to take control.
The song also speaks of the hope that things can get better, and the strength to keep fighting.
The song is a poignant reminder of how mental illness can affect a person, and how it can be overcome.
Best Songs About PTSD – Final Thoughts
Songs about PTSD can help individuals dealing with the condition to feel empowered and understood.
Through music, they can explore the complexity of their emotions and find solace in the lyrics.
Artists such as Kesha, Lady Gaga, The Cranberries, Ingrid Michaelson, Sara Bareilles, Taylor Swift, Matchbox Twenty, Linkin Park, and Silent Planet have all contributed to this genre of music.
While all of these songs provide a unique perspective on PTSD, each one is a powerful reminder of the strength and courage it takes to cope with the condition.
Ultimately, these songs provide hope and a sense of community to those struggling with PTSD.
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