21 Famous Songs About Trauma, PTSD, & Abuse (Healing Playlist)

Songs about trauma dive deep into the emotional experiences of pain, loss, and recovery, reflecting the raw and complex nature of human hardship. Whether addressing personal struggles with mental health, addiction, or difficult relationships, these songs resonate with listeners by offering validation and hope.

They serve as both a mirror to our own experiences and a path toward healing, providing comfort in knowing that others have faced similar challenges.

Across various genres, songs about trauma create a space for reflection, connection, and the possibility of growth despite adversity.

21 Most Popular Songs About Trauma and PTSD That Will Encourage You

These songs explore different facets of trauma, from mental health to addiction, heartbreak, and abuse, and they offer insight into the journey of healing and survival.

Here’s a list of 21 songs about trauma, exploring themes of pain, healing, and resilience:

#1 “Praying” by Kesha

“Praying” by Kesha is an emotional powerhouse that details the singer’s journey from pain to empowerment. Written during a tumultuous period in her life, the song addresses the trauma she experienced from abuse and legal battles. Kesha’s raw and heartfelt vocals convey a sense of deep anguish, but as the song progresses, it becomes an anthem of resilience, hope, and forgiveness. The powerful crescendo toward the end, where she belts the high notes, symbolizes her breaking free from the emotional chains that once held her back.

Through “Praying,” Kesha takes listeners on a cathartic journey from trauma to healing, offering hope to those facing similar struggles, reminding them that they can emerge stronger on the other side of pain.

#2 “Cleanin’ Out My Closet” by Eminem

“Cleanin’ Out My Closet” by Eminem is a deeply personal track that reflects the rapper’s turbulent childhood and the trauma he endured growing up. With unfiltered lyrics, Eminem recounts the emotional scars left by his relationship with his mother and the difficulties he faced in his upbringing. The aggressive tone and raw delivery emphasize his anger and resentment, as he uses the song to confront the emotional baggage he’s carried for years.

The track serves as both a release of pent-up frustration and an exploration of the psychological effects of unresolved trauma. “Cleanin’ Out My Closet” resonates with listeners who’ve faced family struggles and the lasting impact they can have on a person’s mental well-being.

#3 “Hurt” by Johnny Cash (cover of Nine Inch Nails)

Johnny Cash’s haunting rendition of “Hurt” takes the song’s original exploration of emotional trauma and turns it into a reflection on aging, regret, and the scars left behind by a lifetime of pain. Cash’s gravelly voice, laden with vulnerability, gives the song an even deeper sense of sorrow and finality. His cover strips the song down to its rawest form, allowing the weight of the lyrics to take center stage, as he contemplates addiction, loss, and mortality.

The music video, filled with imagery from Cash’s life, adds an extra layer of poignancy. “Hurt” is not just about trauma; it’s about reckoning with it, making it one of the most powerful songs on the topic.

#4 “Piece by Piece” by Kelly Clarkson

“Piece by Piece” by Kelly Clarkson is a heartbreaking reflection on abandonment and the emotional trauma caused by a parent’s absence. The song contrasts Clarkson’s experience of being let down by her father with the love and stability she’s found in her own family. With her emotive voice, Clarkson captures the pain of being left behind, but also the strength that comes from rebuilding a life, “piece by piece.” The song is a cathartic release for anyone who’s struggled with feelings of inadequacy and loss from family trauma.

Despite the sadness in the lyrics, the song is also about healing, showing that it’s possible to overcome childhood trauma and find love and strength in new relationships.

#5 “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten

“Fight Song” by Rachel Platten is a motivational anthem that speaks to the inner fight against personal trauma and adversity. With its empowering lyrics and uplifting melody, the song encourages listeners to tap into their inner strength when they feel like giving up. Platten’s passionate delivery reflects her own personal struggles and how she used music to regain her confidence and power. The chorus, with its rallying cry of “this is my fight song,” resonates with those overcoming emotional battles, offering hope and determination.

“Fight Song” is a reminder that no matter how dark the path may seem, there’s always a reason to keep pushing forward. It’s about reclaiming control, one step at a time.

#6 “1-800-273-8255” by Logic feat. Alessia Cara & Khalid

“1-800-273-8255” by Logic is a deeply impactful song about depression and suicidal thoughts, named after the number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The song follows the narrative of someone in crisis, experiencing overwhelming emotional trauma and considering ending their life. Through the support of others, the protagonist begins to find hope and reasons to keep going. The heartfelt verses by Logic, Alessia Cara, and Khalid blend seamlessly, creating a powerful dialogue about the importance of reaching out for help.

The song’s message is clear: no matter how deep the trauma, there is always a way forward, and asking for help can be the first step toward healing. “1-800-273-8255” offers a lifeline to those who feel they have none.

#7 “Because of You” by Kelly Clarkson

“Because of You” by Kelly Clarkson is an emotional ballad that addresses the long-lasting impact of childhood trauma and toxic relationships. Clarkson sings about how the actions of a loved one left her emotionally scarred, affecting her ability to trust and build healthy relationships as an adult. The powerful piano-driven melody intensifies the rawness of the lyrics, reflecting the pain that comes from feeling vulnerable and hurt by someone who should have offered love and protection.

The song’s vulnerability resonates with anyone who’s experienced trauma that lingers into adulthood, affecting their sense of self-worth. “Because of You” is a poignant reminder of how deep emotional wounds can run, but also how recognizing them is the first step toward healing.

#8 “Breakeven” by The Script

“Breakeven” by The Script delves into the trauma of heartbreak, where one person is left shattered while the other moves on. The song reflects on the imbalance of pain after a breakup, where the emotional toll feels heavier on the one who’s left behind. The upbeat guitar riff contrasts with the sorrow in the lyrics, emphasizing the complexity of emotions when someone’s heart is broken but they’re expected to carry on.

The trauma of lost love, as expressed in “Breakeven,” speaks to the raw experience of grief when a relationship falls apart, highlighting the deep emotional scars that can be left behind. It’s a bittersweet anthem for anyone who’s felt broken by love.

#9 “Sober” by Demi Lovato

“Sober” by Demi Lovato is a raw and confessional song about relapse and the emotional trauma that comes with addiction. Lovato’s heartfelt lyrics reveal her struggle with sobriety, expressing guilt, shame, and a longing for forgiveness. The stripped-down production puts her powerful voice front and center, making the vulnerability in the song even more palpable. Lovato admits to her mistakes while also confronting the deep-seated pain that fuels her battle with addiction.

The song’s honesty resonates with those who have struggled with addiction, reminding them that relapse is a part of the journey and not the end. “Sober” offers a glimpse into the emotional weight carried by those battling their own demons.

#10 “Gasoline” by Halsey

“Gasoline” by Halsey delves into the internal struggles of mental health and the feelings of being emotionally “broken.” The song touches on the trauma of not fitting societal norms, as Halsey questions her identity and worth in a world that feels alien. With its dark, haunting production and heavy lyrics, “Gasoline” expresses the sense of disconnect that often accompanies trauma, where one feels out of control and misunderstood.

Halsey’s lyrics resonate with those who’ve experienced mental health struggles, offering a voice to those who feel like outsiders. “Gasoline” is a dark yet powerful reflection on self-doubt and emotional turbulence, making it an anthem for those trying to navigate their own trauma.

#11 “Scars to Your Beautiful” by Alessia Cara

“Scars to Your Beautiful” by Alessia Cara is a hopeful song about overcoming the trauma of body image issues and societal pressure. The song encourages listeners to embrace their natural beauty, regardless of the external standards imposed by society. Through her soft yet empowering delivery, Cara reminds us that beauty comes from within and that self-acceptance is the key to healing emotional scars.

The song resonates with anyone who has struggled with body image, offering a message of resilience and self-love. “Scars to Your Beautiful” challenges the notion of perfection, instead celebrating the uniqueness and strength that come from embracing one’s true self, flaws and all.

#12 “Demons” by Imagine Dragons

“Demons” by Imagine Dragons explores the inner turmoil that arises from emotional trauma, with the metaphor of “demons” representing the darker parts of one’s psyche. The song’s powerful lyrics and anthemic production convey the weight of carrying emotional baggage, as the narrator acknowledges the struggle of keeping these inner demons hidden from the world. The haunting chorus drives home the message that everyone has their battles, but they can feel overwhelming and inescapable.

“Demons” captures the sense of isolation that often accompanies trauma, as people wrestle with their own insecurities and pain. It’s a song that resonates with those who struggle to keep their emotions in check, but ultimately reminds listeners that they’re not alone in their battles.

#13 “The A Team” by Ed Sheeran

“The A Team” by Ed Sheeran is a poignant ballad about the cycle of addiction and the trauma it brings, told through the story of a young woman trapped in a life of substance abuse. The song’s soft acoustic melody contrasts with the heavy subject matter, making the listener feel the depth of her despair while still holding onto the delicate hope of escape. Sheeran’s storytelling paints a vivid picture of the physical and emotional toll addiction takes, with “The A Team” serving as both a cautionary tale and a cry for help.

The song’s quiet intensity speaks to the trauma of addiction and the way it isolates individuals from the world. It’s a hauntingly beautiful exploration of a difficult subject.

#14 “Everyone’s At It” by Lily Allen

“Everyone’s At It” by Lily Allen is a sharp commentary on society’s complicated relationship with drug use and the trauma that addiction causes, both individually and collectively. The song’s upbeat tempo belies its serious message, as Allen points out the hypocrisy and normalization of substance abuse in modern culture. Through clever, biting lyrics, she highlights how addiction is often swept under the rug or treated as a taboo subject, even as it affects so many people.

The trauma in “Everyone’s At It” is societal, as Allen calls out the systemic issues that contribute to the prevalence of drug use and the emotional damage it leaves behind. The song serves as a wake-up call, encouraging listeners to confront these harsh realities.

#15 “Til It Happens to You” by Lady Gaga

“Til It Happens to You” by Lady Gaga is a haunting and deeply emotional song that addresses the trauma of sexual assault. Written for the documentary The Hunting Ground, which focuses on the issue of sexual violence on college campuses, the song’s lyrics emphasize that no one can truly understand the pain of trauma unless they’ve experienced it themselves. Lady Gaga’s powerful vocals convey a sense of deep sorrow and frustration, while the orchestral arrangement adds to the song’s intensity.

The song resonates deeply with survivors, offering a voice to those who feel unheard or misunderstood. “Til It Happens to You” is a plea for empathy and awareness, shedding light on the emotional weight that trauma survivors carry with them every day.

#16 “Warrior” by Demi Lovato

“Warrior” by Demi Lovato is an empowering anthem about overcoming personal trauma and finding strength in the face of adversity. Lovato’s lyrics reflect her own struggles with addiction, mental health issues, and past trauma, turning her pain into a message of resilience. The song’s soaring chorus and Lovato’s emotive delivery make “Warrior” a declaration of survival, emphasizing that, despite the scars left behind, one can emerge stronger and more determined.

This song resonates with anyone who’s experienced deep emotional wounds but refuses to let them define their future. “Warrior” is a testament to the inner strength that trauma survivors often have to tap into to rebuild their lives.

#17 “Praying” by Mary J. Blige

“Praying” by Mary J. Blige is a soulful ballad that speaks to the emotional and spiritual recovery that comes after enduring trauma and hardship. Blige’s powerful voice expresses both pain and hope, reflecting on the trials she has faced in her personal life, including struggles with addiction and abusive relationships. The song’s message is one of resilience, as Blige turns to prayer and inner strength to heal from her past and find peace.

“Praying” is not just a song about survival but also about finding solace in faith and self-reflection. Blige’s raw emotion and uplifting lyrics offer a reminder that even in the darkest times, healing and redemption are possible.

#18 “Crawling” by Linkin Park

“Crawling” by Linkin Park delves into the internal battle with emotional trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles. Chester Bennington’s intense vocals reflect the overwhelming feeling of losing control, as the lyrics describe how trauma can make a person feel isolated and trapped within their own mind. The heavy guitar riffs and aggressive beats amplify the song’s emotional intensity, creating a cathartic release for anyone grappling with similar feelings of pain and self-doubt.

The song speaks to those who feel overwhelmed by their internal demons, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the chaos that trauma can cause. “Crawling” is an anthem for anyone fighting their own battles, trying to regain a sense of stability.

#19 “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child

“Survivor” by Destiny’s Child is an empowering anthem about overcoming adversity, trauma, and obstacles that may try to hold you back. With its upbeat tempo and strong, confident lyrics, the song celebrates resilience and the refusal to be broken by hardship. The members of Destiny’s Child sing about turning challenges into strength, sending a message of empowerment to anyone who’s been through trauma and come out stronger on the other side.

The song’s infectious energy and motivational message make it a rallying cry for survivors of all kinds. “Survivor” encourages listeners to rise above their circumstances and embrace their inner strength, knowing that they can thrive despite the odds.

#20 “Unwell” by Matchbox Twenty

“Unwell” by Matchbox Twenty is a reflection on mental health struggles, feeling disconnected from oneself, and the emotional toll of trauma. The song’s lyrics describe a person who feels like they’re unraveling mentally, but holds onto the hope that they will eventually find their way back to stability. Rob Thomas’s vulnerable vocals, paired with the mellow melody, create an intimate atmosphere that resonates with anyone who’s felt the weight of anxiety, depression, or emotional distress.

“Unwell” is an honest portrayal of feeling lost but not hopeless. The song offers a sense of solace to those dealing with trauma, reassuring them that it’s okay to struggle, and that healing is a process.

#21 “How to Save a Life” by The Fray

“How to Save a Life” by The Fray is a poignant song about the emotional trauma of watching someone you care about spiral into self-destruction and feeling powerless to help. The song was inspired by the lead singer’s experience as a mentor to troubled teens, and its lyrics reflect the desperation and guilt that often accompany the attempt to save someone from their own pain. The piano-driven melody and heartfelt lyrics make the song both sorrowful and reflective.

The trauma here is twofold: the pain of the person in crisis and the emotional toll on those trying to help them. “How to Save a Life” captures the helplessness and heartache of wanting to fix what feels unfixable, making it a relatable song for anyone who’s tried to support a loved one through difficult times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do artists write songs about trauma?

Artists write songs about trauma to process their own pain, connect with listeners who’ve experienced similar hardships, and offer a sense of healing. These songs help normalize conversations around mental health and emotional struggles.

How do songs about trauma help listeners?

Songs about trauma provide a sense of validation and emotional release for listeners, helping them feel understood and less alone in their struggles. They can also offer hope, reminding people that healing and resilience are possible.

What themes are commonly explored in songs about trauma?

Common themes in songs about trauma include heartbreak, addiction, mental health struggles, loss, and recovery. These themes highlight both the pain and the strength needed to overcome adversity.

Are songs about trauma specific to one genre of music?

No, songs about trauma can be found in various genres, including pop, rock, hip hop, and country. The universality of trauma makes it a relatable subject across different musical styles.