In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we at NRT are highlighting powerful new songs that shine a light on the often-unspoken struggles many face. Music has a unique ability to reach places where words often can’t—offering hope, healing, and honesty in moments of darkness. From heartfelt ballads to energetic anthems, each of these recently released tracks addresses mental health with compassion, vulnerability, and faith. Whether you're amid the battle or supporting someone who is, these songs remind us that we are not alone—and that hope is always within reach.
 
SAPHIRE - "The Light"
 
Co-written with Tyler Moody and Rachael Nemiroff, "The Light" is a deeply personal and emotional track inspired by pop artist SAPHIRE's longstanding passion for mental health awareness. Since the age of 13, SAPHIRE has spoken and sung in schools throughout Minnesota, openly sharing her personal story of mental health and suicide prevention. The message of "The Light" is clear and compassionate: an honest letter of hope for anyone who might be struggling in silence. It’s a beautiful reminder that you are not alone. 
- Kevin Davis
 
Josh Wilson - "Jesus and Therapy"
 
“Jesus and Therapy” is a poignant anthem that addresses the struggles many of us face, including fear, anxiety, and the burden of past mistakes. This song reminds us of God’s truth and love. Through it, contemporary artist Josh Wilson invites us to confront those lies and embrace the healing that comes from both Jesus and the community. 
 
This song beautifully connects with the biblical truth in James 5:16: “Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed.” It’s a call to honesty, not simply pretending that “you’re fine,” but rather leaning on others for support and healing. As the song emphasizes, true healing comes from authentic community and God’s grace.
 
This song carries a profound message of redemption, grace, and healing. As Wilson’s lyrics proclaim: “Tell God and somebody else/(To be found) tell God and somebody else (to be found)/(There is help) tell God and somebody else/(Here and now) I need help/I need help/I’m finally being honest with myself/I need help.”
 
Through “Jesus and Therapy,” Wilson offers a heartfelt reminder to confront your struggles, lean on God and others, and find the healing and freedom available in Christ. Amen to that.  
- Kevin Davis
 
Skillet - "Fire Inside of Me"
 
The iconic band Skillet has consistently produced accessible rock songs that resonate with a wide range of struggles. While perhaps not as specific as other artists, I always relate to their candid look at the challenges we all face. This new hit from their latest album, Revolution, stands out as an album highlight, partly due to its throwback sound reminiscent of the more orchestral days of one of their earlier albums, Comatose. 
 
“Fire Inside of Me” is a relatable declaration that acknowledges we need help. I struggle to keep my internal thoughts from becoming self-loathing storms. Music often serves as an outlet that helps either facilitate an escape from these feelings or confront them directly, draining them of their power. 
 
With lyrics like, "Anxiety surrounds me. I don't recognize myself. Would you abandon me and go if my facade fell?" this song resonates deeply. Most of us can relate to having lofty goals to make a difference, yet sometimes we feel paralyzed by our shortcomings, questioning how we could ever help others when we struggle to help ourselves. However, this song offers the hope that Christ can "light the fire within" each of us. It's a process, and the struggles don't end overnight, but Christ is an endless well of refreshment. "I need you one more time." Indeed, every day. But whenever "I don't recognize myself," Christ does. 
- J.J. Francesco
 
Dawn Leno - "Undone"
 
When I'm struggling with my mental health, scripture-filled music serves as a perfect remedy to help me combat it. Just as King David played music that refreshed and comforted King Saul in his anguish (1 Samuel 16:23), music remains a powerful source of comfort and solace in similar ways today. One song I often find myself singing is "Undone" by Dawn Leno, a Michigan-based worship leader and musician. I heard her perform this at a women's conference, and it deeply ministered to my heart. It's a beautiful reminder of who God is and our place in His eyes. He grants us perfect, deep, lasting, and unwavering peace when we focus our minds on Him, as stated in Isaiah 26:3.
- Janice Henriquez
 
Rend Collective - “Fight of My Life”
 
Music is one of my go-tos when I'm stressed, anxious, or sad. There is always a song that resonates with what I'm feeling and reassures me that I'm not alone. Although the battles within our minds may feel isolating, God is there, and others understand. 
 
One of my new favorites that addresses mental health is folk band Rend Collective's "Fight of My Life." Lead singer Chris Llewellyn has been candid about his struggle with depression and the significance this song holds for him.
 
Although it’s a song about depression, it’s an upbeat and fun track with their signature Irish flair. It’s a fantastic song to have stuck in your head, reminding you that God is your joy in the battle of your life.
- Felicia Holt