Music and Mental Health.
If there is one thing to be acknowledged, it’s that mental health and music are inextricably linked – whether it’s a source of resonant emotion or a desire for reflection.
Often, the term ‘mental health’ refers to our overall state of well being – and despite the fact that much research on our intellect has been conducted throughout the years – it comes to no surprise that indeed, music has a more profound impact on our cognitive, behavioural and emotional functioning.
In Observation of Global Mental Health Month, PAUSE presents a curated playlist picked by editors in light of the longstanding connection between music and mental health – as according to statistics, 54% of us have certain songs we turn to again and again to cheer ourselves up.
Johnson - Editor-in-Chief
Rema - Calm Down
Yolanda Adams - I Believe
Lucy - Contributing Styles/Features Editor
Blood Orange - Chewing Gum
Ama Lou - Northside
Tom - Freelance Features Writer
FKA Twigs - Oh My Love
Kid Cudi - Sad People
Samantha - PAUSE Her Editor
Gabrielle - Sunshine
Soul For Real - Candy Rain
Rhys - Fashion Director
Sounds of Blackness - I'm Going All The Way
Bryson Tiller - Money Problems / Benz Truck
Amal - Music Editor / PAUSE Her News
A$AP Rocky - A$AP Forever ft. Moby, Kid Cudi, T.I
Justin Bieber - Mark My Words
Lyrics as well as music can be helpful. In many cases, emotions take time to emerge and can be buried. The use of lyrics analysis and musical storytelling is now commonplace in music therapy. Our own life experiences can be matched by themes in music we relate to, helping us to navigate through challenging times.
What song do you turn to when feeling down? Comment below.
