Did writing “Side Effects” alter your perspective on mental health?
I do not think it altered my perspective. But it was a therapeutic experience writing about it.
What do you hope people who struggle with anxiety will take away from your music?
Hope and validation.
How has songwriting helped you understand your emotions?
It helps me process my emotions. When I write down my feelings, I always get a better understanding of how I feel. And in a way, when I release the song a part of me feels like I am releasing those emotions with it.
Was there any musician you resonated with while on your mental health journey?
I listen to a lot of Billie Eilish. She is an artist I absolutely adore and resonates with a lot. Her lyrics definitely helped me through some challenging times.
How does being a mental health advocate and an artist complement each other?
I am able to share my struggles with my music. It is super therapeutic for me, and it feels great knowing I am spreading awareness towards it. More people need to talk about mental health and help break the stigma.
How do you find strength as a vocalist to tell your story?
I try to look at it as a way of helping others. When I do not make it about myself, I find the strength to share very vulnerable stories.
When did you come up with the idea for “Side Effects”?
It is actually a funny story. I was in the car driving to a writing session, and I remember I had a bunch of anxiety from drinking too much coffee. And I was laughing to myself saying “here’s another side effect of my anxiety…” and I was like damn I like that for a song title! And when I got to the session we went with that title and made the song.
How do you think the internal struggles you have been through and overcome can affect the outside world?
I hope that by sharing my story people can see that they are not alone. And that it does get better even when it feels like it is never going to. It does.
What are you most proud of as a musician?
I am proud of myself for never giving up on my dreams and being vulnerable with my music.
How do you hope your listening community will feel after hearing this track?
I hope they feel seen.
