Meaning of "Paranoid" by Post Malone

"Paranoid" delves into the dark and fearful mindset of an artist who has achieved success and wealth. Post Malone shares his constant anxiety about someone trying to take his life and the measures he takes to protect himself, even sleeping with a .45 every night. The lyrics also reveal the impact success has had on his relationships, with friends and family changing after he received his first significant paycheck. He expresses his struggle to trust anyone and the feeling of being isolated, comparing himself to Edward Snowden, who exposed government surveillance. The fear of a home invasion is evident as he admits to keeping a loaded gun by his bedside. Despite fame and fortune, he feels trapped, constantly surveilled by "helicopters in the sky" and deceived by politicians' lies. The artist questions the point of choosing sides when the truth is elusive and wonders when, not if, someone will come for him. Post Malone admits to sacrificing his mental and emotional well-being in pursuit of success, acknowledging the toll it has taken on him. The song ends on a note of resignation, as Post Malone acknowledges that he can only do so much to protect himself and struggles to find peace amidst his overwhelming paranoia.