Ingrid Andress has reached millions through her vulnerable and honest songwriting and she doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon.
LISTEN NOW: Ingrid Andress shares the importance of talking about mental health
While baring her soul isn’t always easy, the 31-year-old says she finds it well-worth the risk when she can provide comfort for others going through similar struggles, especially when it comes to mental health.
“I know for me, songwriting is sort of my mental health outlet to be able to express myself,” she told Audacy. “The biggest joy for me has been realizing that other people relate to that too.”
She continued, “I think more people feel more alone than we think they do. Chances are if you’re feeling something, someone else is feeling it too.”
According to Ingrid, finding community through music can be a helpful tool while managing ones mental health — a way to realize you’re simply not alone.
“I think music can help people care for their mental health because some people write about things sometimes you don’t know how to put it into words when you’re in the moment,” she shared. “But if you hear a song that you’re like ‘Oh, this explains what I’m feeling right now completely, it can sort of open the door to then thinking about those things.”
Audacy's I’m Listening initiative aims to encourage those who are dealing with mental health issues to understand they are not alone. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or anxiety, know that someone is always there. Additionally, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 988. Find a full list of additional resources here.