Unwell

Who it's for

The song speaks from inside the fear of 'losing it' while insisting the speaker is still a person worth understanding, which directly counters the shame of stigma.

Feelings it meets

• Living With Mental Illness
• Anxiety
• Overthinking
• Masking
• Shame
• Loneliness

What it is

"Unwell" is a song by Matchbox Twenty, written by Rob Thomas and produced by Matt Serletic, from the band's 2002 album More Than You Think You Are; it was released as the album's second single in February 2003. Thomas has said he wrote it as a metaphor for humanity in general, aimed at people who feel troubled and alone, to tell them they are not alone.

Where to find it

Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Amazon Music (widely available); official music video on the band's channel.

Before you start

Heads up: Hearing voices and paranoia, as metaphor.

Age: Ages 12+

Much of your pain is self-chosen.Kahlil Gibran, The Prophet, “On Pain”