Music can be relatable in a way that few art forms can be. During recovery from addiction, it is crucial to be able to connect with other people who are going through similar struggles. While having a strong sober support system consisting of actual people is certainly the best resource, music can be a source of consolation and inspiration throughout the day.
8 Best Songs About Addiction and Recovery
“Not Afraid” by Eminem
The song “Not Afraid” finds Eminem trying to connect with people who might also be struggling with a drug habit. He insists that while recovering from substance use disorders is difficult, addiction treatment and proper mental health services administration are possible — and they are well worth it.
“Old Ways” by Demi Lovato
Demi Lovato wrote the song after multiple experiences in drug rehab. For Lovato, her drug and alcohol addiction was connected to eating disorders. As such, when Lovato refers to old ways, she’s talking not just about drug abuse and alcohol abuse but all the old behaviors associated with them.
“Sober” by Kelly Clarkson
“Sober,” by Kelly Clarkson, the singer-songwriter seems to be talking about a romantic relationship. In fact, however, Clarkson uses the subject of a romantic relationship metaphorically to discuss drug addiction and recovery. Clarkson likens the end of an addiction to a break-up with a romantic partner.
There are always painful feelings associated with recovery and break-ups, but ultimately Clarkson recognizes that both circumstances are opportunities for personal growth. In the song, she discusses what it is like to be three months sober and how she is growing each day.
“Breaking the Habit” by Linkin Park
In fact, Bennington’s wife and bandmates were part of the reason Bennington was able to get sober at all. They staged an intervention for him in 2006, helping him to begin his recovery journey to make sure he was not an addict anymore.
“Dark Times” by the Weeknd
Without these “dark times,” recovery is impossible. Recovery, the light at the end of the tunnel, allows us to emerge from these dark periods as stronger, more hopeful people.
“Otherside” by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis
In many ways, the song is also a critique of the music industry in general. Macklemore points out that musicians and the lyrics they write exert a powerful influence on young people. Rather than glorifying substance abuse, suggests Macklemore, it might be more helpful to connect with listeners and discuss their actual struggles.
“Under the Bridge” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers
When Kiedis wrote the song, he was at first reluctant to show his bandmates the lyrics. Being vulnerable is hard, but it is an important part of recovery. His bandmates were ultimately supportive, and in fact, the song was one of the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ breakout hits. Today, Anthony Kiedis is open about his sobriety, and he has even published a memoir about his recovery journey, entitled Scar Tissue.
“The A-Team” by Ed Sheeran
Shortly afterward, Ed Sheeran wrote “The A Team,” which is about a sex worker who struggles with an addiction to crack cocaine.
Frequently Asked Questions
They are also reminders of how far we have come in our journey to recovery. Other inspiring songs include “Not Afraid” by Eminem, “Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson, and “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten. All of these upbeat songs offer a sense of hope for those who are struggling with addiction.
Getting Help
Residents of Design for Recovery work daily to develop the skills and tools they need to avoid relapse and begin to live joyful, free, and prosperous lives. Not only do residents of Design for Recovery let go of substances, but they also begin to grasp ahold of new social lives and careers that make their sobriety journeys meaningful and valuable.
If you are inspired by any of these songs, keep in mind that even the richest and most famous musicians didn’t do it alone. If you are ready for a new way of life, reach out to Design for Recovery today.
