“My Mind” by Yebba: And Four Other Songs About Mental Pain

Below are five classic songs about mental pain, starting with Yebba‘s “My Mind.” Although sad and deeply moving music can be cathartic and comforting, consider your own current mood and needs before proceeding.

I. “My Mind” by Yebba (2016)

Yebba’s highly anticipated second album will be released tomorrow. If you have never seen/heard her powerful and extremely heartfelt “My Mind,” this may be a good time to listen.

This song eventually appeared on her first studio album, Dawn (2021), which happens to be a tribute to her mother who died by suicide. (“My Mind,” however, was written before that occurred.)

…I’m ’bout to lose my
I, oh, I am, I
I’m ’bout to lose my
My mind, my mind, my mind…

II. “Everybody Hurts” by R.E.M. (1992)

In the intro to Aloe Blacc‘s fine video version from 2024, he states, “I love using music for positive social transformation. R.E.M. wrote ‘Everybody Hurts’ to save lives, specifically to help stop teens from committing suicide. It’s a touching and absorbing ballad that serves a higher purpose. I believe when you can use music to bring about positive social change, you’re serving your highest purpose. Singing this song makes me reflect on all the friends lost to suicide and reminds me how important it is for everyone to be there for others.”