Analysis of Substance Use and Mental Health Themes in Popular Music Since 2013
A study reveals how pop music from 2013 to 2024 reflects societal trends in substance use and mental health, highlighting its potential role in public health initiatives.
A recent study presented at the American Psychiatric Association's Annual Meeting on May 17th investigates how contemporary pop music reflects broader societal trends related to substance use and mental health. Recognizing the cultural influence of popular songs, researchers analyzed the lyrics of the top 50 songs annually from 2013 through 2024, totaling 550 songs, to identify thematic shifts over the decade.
Early in the decade, references to alcohol were most prevalent, but over time, lyrics increasingly highlighted mentions of pills, unspecified drugs, benzodiazepines, stimulants, opioids, and ecstasy. Notably, alcohol references experienced a significant resurgence from 2022 onward, reaching a peak in 2024. Besides substance references, lyrics also evolved to encompass themes of loneliness, heartbreak, guilt, especially post-pandemic, as well as resilience, survival, and self-reflection.
The study underscores that music acts both as a mirror to societal issues and as a message that shapes public discourse. Researchers suggest that leveraging popular music in public health strategies could reduce stigma around mental health and substance use, promote awareness, and encourage healthier behaviors. Proposed applications include lyric analysis and discussion in educational settings, music therapy, mindfulness practices for youth, and collaborations with artists for impactful campaigns. Overall, music's emotional resonance offers a powerful platform to connect with communities and foster positive change.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-explores-mentions-substance-mental-health.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
New Book Examines Challenges in Developing Effective Treatments for Alzheimer's and Depression
A new book explores why treatments for Alzheimer's and depression have lagged despite scientific advances, emphasizing the need to understand the brain as a complex dynamic system to develop better therapies.
Introducing BEES: A Quick and Effective Tool for Monitoring Emotional Well-Being
A new quick and easy-to-use questionnaire, BEES, developed by Edith Cowan University, offers an effective way to monitor emotional well-being and identify signs of distress with minimal effort.
Digital Protocol Connects Brain Connectivity Improvements to Enhanced Mood and Reduced Inflammation
A new digital intervention demonstrates promising results in improving mood, reducing inflammation, and enhancing brain connectivity in middle-aged adults, supporting innovative approaches for mental health and immune regulation.
New Insights into How Location and Mental Health Influence Each Other
A groundbreaking eight-year study reveals the intricate, bidirectional connection between where we live and our mental health, emphasizing the importance of supportive neighborhoods for well-being.