When you think of music, your mind might automatically go to “sex, drugs, and rock and roll.” However, there is an entire culture of music that can complement addiction recovery and healing.
There are many amazing songs about addiction recovery; the key is finding the one that speaks to you.
What Is Musical Healing?
The role of music in healing is so evident that there are even specific therapies and modalities that involve music. There are therapies like “sound bath” therapy that use specific music levels to create a sense of calm and well-being. This is important because music therapy has been shown to positively affect people with anxiety and depression – two major components of addiction.
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), “Music-based interventions have been evaluated for their effects on anxiety in a variety of disease conditions and health care settings… There is some evidence that adding music-based interventions to usual treatment may improve depressive symptoms when compared with usual treatment alone. There is also some evidence that music-based interventions may help decrease anxiety levels and improve functioning in people with depression.” There are also specific songs that can help people when they are struggling with addiction recovery.
There are also many musicians in recovery practicing sobriety or who began their careers promoting sobriety. Examples of these famous musicians include Wolfgang Van Halen and Macklemore. There is also a big trend on social media sites like TikTok and Instagram that promotes recovery and sobriety-focused music. The social culture is shifting toward a safe and sober setting.It should also be noted that some music can actually have negative effects on mental health and promote addictive behaviors. This is especially true with younger people. According to the Journal of Studies on Alcohol, “Empirical studies suggest that alcohol and illicit drug use among youth may be associated with listening to popular music such as hard rock, heavy metal, rap, and techno. Similarly, aggressive behaviors have been linked to various genres of music. For example, studies have shown that adolescents with a preference for heavy metal or hard rock music reported higher rates of reckless behaviors than those who did not like these forms of music.”
The Best Songs About Addiction Recovery
The following are just a few of the songs that many people credit as being positive about addiction recovery:
- “Recovery” by James Arthur
- “I Surrender” by Hillsong
- “Sober” by P!nk
- “Going Through Changes” by Eminem
- “Old Ways” by Demi Lovato
- “Recover” by Natasha Beddingfield
- “Not Afraid” by Eminem
- “Hunger” by Florence and the Machine
- “Sober” by Kelly Clarkson
- “Breaking the Habit” by Linkin Park
Some musicians have also been vocal about their use of the 12-Step recovery program to help them with their addiction. One of the most outspoken proponents of the Twelve Steps program is Eminem (though he is very clear that he is not affiliated with any specific program or fellowship).
Utilizing Musical Healing for Long-Term Recovery
Music and musical healing are great ways for you to overcome the anxieties of your addiction and get the help that you need. The message of the music is “If I can do it, anyone can do it.”
Helping others through music is also a great way to do service. It can even help people avoid a potential relapse.
The Joy of Music and Recovery at The Phoenix Recovery Center
Here at The Phoenix Recovery Center, we believe in the power of musical healing for long-term success. We also believe in long-term success over short-term “fixes.” That is why all of our recovery plans are individualized and comprehensive, with a focus on the future.
Let the power of music lift you up and out of the bondage of addiction. Recovery is out there and waiting. You can do this. We can help.
Many powerful songs capture the journey of addiction recovery. From heartfelt ballads to uplifting anthems, many artists have used their music to share stories of resilience and hope, offering encouragement to those in recovery. If you are looking for a way out of addiction, there is hope and help. Consider incorporating musical healing as part of your journey. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, mental illness, or both, we can help get you on the right road to recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. To begin your healing journey complete this short form or call The Phoenix Recovery Center at (801) 438-3185.
