Inspirational Songs About Addiction for the Recovering Addict

For many people, music can be a source of happiness and inspiration. Upbeat music can raise dopamine levels and positively change someone’s mood. Research even supports these claims and suggests that music or songs about addiction might have several benefits, including improving cognitive functioning, decreasing stress, and reducing depression.

A patient in recovery from a drug or alcohol addiction, music may be a welcome aid in their comeback. Whether they are at a drug detox center going through withdrawal or several years sober, recovery can be filled with trying times that test their limits and their sobriety. Songs about drug addiction and recovery or optimistic-sounding songs could be the reminder or distraction individuals need to remember there are constructive ways to maintain sobriety.

How Does Music Affect Your Mood?

Play some mood music and get to smiling! Allow the lyrics to inspire you or remind you why you stopped depending on a particular substance. Addiction and substance abuse is no joke, but with the help of people around you or artists fighting the same temptations as you, it becomes easier to recover or maintain sobriety.

Music affects our mood because of brain dopamine regulation, and believe it or not, some sad songs lower anxiety and uplift people. In addition, certain pieces create self-awareness and reflection. The lyrics can be relatable and encourage inspiration if you feel hopeless or struggle with cravings that may result in a relapse, so distract or remind yourself with some good music!

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The Best Songs About Struggling with Addiction

The entertainment industry is known for its connection to substance abuse and addiction. While many songs glorify drug and alcohol use, there are songs about addiction for the recovering addict looking for hope. For example, “One Day at a Time” by Joe Walsh sings about taking recovery one day at a time. The song uses a metaphor, comparing addiction to “a runaway train headed for the end of the line.” Still, the song gives listeners a positive message since it transitions to the singer explaining his reconciliation with abusing alcohol and how he comes to live without the misuse of the substance.

“Starting Over” By Macklemore and Ryan Lewis

This particular song offers an honest account of what it is like to relapse. Sober for three years, Macklemore begins with how he “threw ‘em all away for 2 Styrofoam cups.” He goes into detail about the struggle of having to tell his parents about his relapse then finding his way back to sobriety. Toward the end of the song, Macklemore says, “If I can be an example of getting sober, then I can be an example of starting over.” For anyone who has relapsed, this song can be a reminder that this scenario does not make someone a failure and they are not alone, and they can find sobriety again.

“Under the Bridge” by Red Hot Chili Peppers

This hit song actually recounts lead singer Anthony Kiedis’s struggle with a heroin addiction. He sings about the pain of living in lonely days because of addiction and even admits, “I gave my life away.” If you are ever feeling weak and need a reminder of why you got sober, this song might help. Kiedis sings about terrible things he saw and actions that he committed and regrets. Addiction can lead a person to follow cynical influences and change behavior, commit crimes, or establish a new life that is full of hardships. Under the Bridge sets an example of what not to do and why addiction never results in positive outcomes.

“Fight Song” by Rachel Platten

Add this song to your playlist and pull it up whenever you need inspiration. This upbeat song will instantly boost your mood and remind you to believe in yourself. The song is not exclusive to addiction but is great for people who are struggling during recovery because it reminds them that they have the power to “take back their life.” Platten's intention for the song is to encourage people to not give up and that their feelings toward whatever they are battling through matter. The lyrics provide an excellent reminder for those to keep pushing through to recovery or to remain in sobriety.

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Help at Our California Drug Rehab

While these songs about addiction can aid in your recovery, they alone are not enough. At our drug rehab in Palm Springs, California, we understand that overcoming a drug or alcohol addiction is hard, but we want to be here for you every step of the way.

Drugs addiction songs are great, but there are other tips and resources that Banyan Palm Springs offer to help sustain long-term recovery. If you or a loved one is struggling, get professional help today, and don’t wait to take action!

At Banyan Palm Springs, we are here to help you or your loved one find lasting sobriety. To begin the journey to better days, call Banyan Treatment Center today at 888-280-4763 for more information on our levels of care and other services!

Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing

Alyssa is the National Director of Digital Marketing and is responsible for a multitude of integrated campaigns and events in the behavioral health and addictions field. All articles have been written by Alyssa and medically reviewed by our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne.