Music has an incredible ability to get people through difficult times.
A good song can inspire you, make you cry, or help you realize a change you want to make in life. Now that you’re living a sober lifestyle, you may hit some roadblocks along the way. Music is a great way to encourage yourself on bad days and keep yourself elevated on good ones.
As a drug and alcohol rehab in Massachusetts, we know some good songs for recovery and addiction that may provide some inspiration and comfort during difficult times.
Best Songs for Recovery
There are many artists and musicians that have received addiction treatment or have loved ones who have battled with substance abuse. Some of these songs for sobriety have illustrated the artists’ personal struggles with addiction. These lyrical narratives about overcoming drug or alcohol abuse have touched the hearts of many and have helped those who are in addiction recovery stay motivated. Below are some good songs for recovery and addiction.
“Sober” by Kelly Clarkson
Kelly wrote this song and used addiction as a metaphor for a broken relationship. The individual she was singing about was her substance of choice and compares rekindling the relationship to relapse. The song goes back and forth between reuniting with her addiction and staying sober. Of course, many people in addiction recovery battle with the idea of relapse. She ends the song with the lines, “Three months and I'm still sober; Picked all my weeds but kept the flowers”, describing her successful sobriety so far.1 Although the song was written about a broken romantic relationship, it could easily apply to someone’s recovery.
“You Found Me” by The Fray
“You Found Me” describes a person’s conversation with God, in which they question his absence through difficult times. Lead singer and pianist Isaac Slade wrote the song because he questioned God’s timing. The singer spoke of going through difficulties in his family and waiting for God’s help amid everything. This song is a great representation of the frustration an addict may feel during their active addiction and recovery. It may seem as if our prayers are falling on deaf ears sometimes. However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and recovery is always possible.
At Banyan Massachusetts, we have a stabilization program that is meant to treat patients who have relapsed and help get them back on track. After relapse, patients will also have to re-enter to ensure a safe recovery.
“I Surrender” by Hillsong Worship
This faith-based song expresses a person’s cry to God for help. The song speaks of surrendering to God and relying on him for his strength through difficult times. Many individuals, especially in recovery, find that seeking out God and developing their relationship with him helps them stay sober and maintain a happy and healthy lifestyle.
“Recovery” by James Arthur
James Arthur’s song “Recovery” represents a person’s determination in the uphill battle of recovery. This song can be applied to any form of recovery, especially addiction recovery. James describes himself as a soldier going to war and breaking down walls. He goes through changes he’s made to maintain his sobriety and new lifestyle. This song perfectly represents the transformation that’s often required in recovery and the determination it takes to see it through.
“Sober” by Pink
Pink wrote this song as a reflection of her own struggles with an addiction to club drugs like ecstasy and meth. The song describes her desire to change her life for the better and speaks about moments when she thought about using again. She ends the song with the question, “But how do I feel this good sober?”2 Like many other recovering addicts, Pink was back and forth on her drug use but realized how good she felt while sober.
Our Wilmington rehab facility also offers a meth addiction program that is designed for people who, like Pink, struggled with meth abuse. This program provides an effective and safe treatment that addresses the specific symptoms of meth addiction.
“Old Ways” by Demi Lovato
Demi Lovato is one of the many celebrities in recovery. Many of her songs focus on her struggles with substance abuse. “Old Ways”, in particular, focuses on accountability and refusing to allow the opinions of others to dictate her life. She speaks about not going back to her old ways, even while others say she will, and understanding that she’s the only one who has control over her sobriety. If you’re in recovery, there may be some people in your life who are doubtful or discouraging. This song is a great reminder that you are the one who decides how you’re going to live your life.
“Breaking the Habit” by Linkin Park
Linkin Park’s past lead singer Chester Bennington wrote “Breaking the Habit” because of his own struggles with substance abuse. This song describes breaking the habit of self-destruction that is often associated with addiction. It’s about a person who tends to cause themselves physical and mental harm. Drug and alcohol abuse can take over a person’s life, pushing them to behave in ways they normally wouldn’t. “Breaking the Habit” describes the struggles of someone with an addiction and their determination to change their ways.
“Fight Song” by Rachel Platten
“Fight Song” became an instant sensation due to its inspirational lyrics. It’s one of the most encouraging songs for addiction recovery because it describes the impact of small choices and the importance of internal strength and determination in the midst of hardships.
Recovery is often seen as an uphill battle. Oftentimes, our mental state overpowers our physical downfalls. Many of these songs are centered on the mental and emotional aspects of substance abuse. When you hit a wall in sobriety, you can listen to these songs and look to them for motivation. Remember, you aren’t alone.
If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse, call Banyan Treatment Center Massachusetts at 888-280-4763 to find out more about our programs.
Sources:
- Genius- Sober Kelly Clarkson
- Genius- Sober P!nk
