Meaning of "Anxiety" by Julia Michaels

"Anxiety" by Julia Michaels delves into the personal struggles and experiences of the artist, shedding light on her battle with anxiety and depression. The lyrics capture the conflicting emotions and challenges faced by someone who is dealing with mental health issues, while also highlighting the lack of understanding from friends who haven't experienced it themselves.

The song explores the theme of the artist feeling like an outsider in social situations. While her friends suggest going to the movies, she prefers to isolate herself and hold hands with her depression. This emphasizes her deep connection to her mental health struggles, which makes it difficult for her to participate in typical social activities. She further reveals her anxiety's ability to resurface just when she thinks she has overcome it, serving as a constant reminder of its presence and power.

Michaels vividly portrays the frustration of overthinking and missing out on things because of her mental health. The fear of judgment and the overwhelming need to apologize for feeling the way she does only adds to her internal struggle. Despite her attempts to appear "fine" or "alright," she acknowledges the truth in the claims made by her exes and admits that she can be hard to deal with at times. This reflection hints at a deeper understanding of how mental health may impact relationships and how it contributes to her feelings of isolation.

The song delves into the artist's longing to be understood and the desire for her friends to empathize and relate to what she goes through. She expresses her wish that others could comprehend the complexity of her emotions and the difficulties she faces on a daily basis. The repeated phrase, "All my friends they don't know what it's like, what it's like," emphasizes this ongoing disconnect between her experiences and their understanding.

Overall, "Anxiety" serves as a powerful anthem for those battling mental health issues. It sheds light on the isolation, misunderstandings, and internal struggles faced by individuals with anxiety and depression. Michaels' raw portrayal of her emotions and experiences invites empathy and understanding from listeners who may be going through similar challenges.