Music Has Helped Me Through Dark Times

I’m a big fan of music. My family always had music on in the background when I was growing up. As an adult I have used music over and over again to keep myself moving and motivated. I lean on music even more when I’m not doing well, either physically or mentally. Over the years I’ve found a lot of songs that speak to both physical and mental illnesses and I’ve made a playlist called ‘For Sick Days’ on Youtube. I’m sure it will change as I keep finding new songs but I wanted to share it with you all in case it might help you.

www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6_TPJvwK2qMrE3nReC87ex1H27P0ZSzM

I wanted to highlight a few favorites:

Great Big Storm by Nate Ruess

The chorus says "We're holding our own in a great big storm." On bad days I find songs that are overly ambitious to be not as helpful. This song has more of a sense of survival.

Get Better by Frank Turner

"We can get better because we're not dead yet." This song is about not giving up on yourself.

Better Son of Daughter by Rilo Kiley

"But you'll smile and you'll make it through, you'll fake it if you have to...you'll be awake, you'll be alert, you'll be positive though it hurts." This song helps me to take a deep breath and put on my brave face.

Head Above Water by Avril Lavigne