It’s important to note that the impact of metal music on mental health can vary from person to person. Many people cannot understand why Metal music exists or is popular. One would think angry screaming is not great for depression. Studies show how beneficial it is to helping with the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
I’m not a therapist nor a psychiatrist. I am an avid metal listener that feels more alive with the presence of angry music and researched on the simple question “of why does this help?”
1) Emotional Catharsis
Metal music often contains intense and emotionally charged lyrics. It’s a sense of release from the tension. Another person understands and can express it for them. By connecting with the music’s powerful themes, individuals may experience a sense of emotional catharsis, reducing stress and promoting a more balanced emotional state. This is particularly helpful to me as a female with female lead singers such as “In this Moment” or “Spiritbox”. Two stellar women who know how to use their voice.
2) Sense of belonging
The metal community fosters a strong sense of belonging among its fans. Attending concerts or engaging with online communities allows metal enthusiasts to connect with like-minded individuals who share their passion for the genre. Mosh pits sound terrible but I’ve never seen them as a negative environment. Someone falls, three hands reach to help them stand up. It’s a joyous bit of celebration. Beyond the concerts, this social support can enhance feelings of acceptance and reduce feelings of isolation, positively impacting mental well-being.
3) Empowerment and Resilience
Metal music often celebrates themes of overcoming adversity and facing life’s challenges head-on. One of my favorite bands, The Ghost Inside, had a horrific tour bus accident and had to recover. During their recovery period they still found passion through their music. I identified with the theme. Others identify with these themes, listeners may feel empowered to confront their own struggles with increased resilience and determination, fostering a positive mindset when dealing with difficult situations.
4) Validation of Negative Emotions
Sadness or frustration that leads to anger are real emotions. Metal music acknowledges that they are a natural part of the human experience. Rather than suppressing these feelings, metal encourages listeners to confront and process them, fostering emotional maturity and self-awareness.
5) Outlet for Anger and Aggression
For some individuals, metal music serves as a healthy outlet for feelings of anger and aggression. This is where the mosh pit comes once again into play. Engaging with the music’s energetic and intense sounds can help dissipate these emotions in a controlled and non-harmful-ish manner, promoting a sense of emotional relief.
6) Enhanced Mood and Energy
The fast-paced and energetic nature of metal music can trigger the release of endorphins and adrenaline, leading to an improved mood and increased energy levels. For me I would prefer if a night club played metal music to dance and thrive to over pop or other electric sounds. This can be particularly helpful during times of low motivation or fatigue, boosting overall mental alertness and productivity.
7) Mindfulness and Flow
Immersing oneself in the intricate and dynamic elements of metal music can induce a state of mindfulness and flow, where the listener becomes fully absorbed in the present moment. The band “Nothing More” is particularly stellar at this meditative state with their sound and narration from Alan Watts recordings. Their and other band’s meditative quality of metal can reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm and focus.
8) Artistic Expression and Creativity
I am split between Broadway albums, classical, and Metal. I would say nothing in between because I’m convinced there is only a small crevice between metal music and classical. They are more similar than what people realize. Many metal musicians incorporate complex musical arrangements and innovative techniques into their compositions. Engaging with this artistry can inspire listeners to appreciate creativity and may also encourage their own artistic pursuits, contributing to a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment.
9) Symbolic Release of Tension
In some cases, the aggressive and heavy sound of metal music may symbolically represent the challenges and tensions of daily life. By jamming out to this music, individuals may feel that they are indirectly releasing and coping with the stresses they face, which can be beneficial for mental well-being.
It’s okay to have different taste in music from the top 40. It’s okay to exclusively listen to the top 40. Whatever floats your boat. I may have scored Traumatic Brain Injury but that certainly did not curb my passion for the sounds of metal.
Throw up those signs of horns and rock on out!
Rachel McG
