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Researching the concept of mental illness in my music video

Here I will be analysing specific mental phases the character in the MV is facing 

(Images from - Pinterest)

Emotional Numbness

The mental state centres around emotional numbness, where the person no longer feels emotions strongly. Happiness feels distant, but sadness is not overwhelming either — instead, everything feels flat and muted. It is like their emotional responses have been turned down, leaving them feeling empty rather than expressive. They are alive and aware, but not truly feeling connected to their experiences.

Example lyric: “A little bit tired of trying to care when I don’t”


                    

Constant Mental Exhaustion

The person experiences ongoing mental fatigue that does not go away with rest. Even simple daily tasks feel draining, and the mind often feels foggy or slowed down. This is not laziness but emotional burnout, where the brain is tired from constantly coping. There is a sense of heaviness that makes normal life feel like extra effort.

Example lyric: “A little bit tired of quick repairs to cope”



The “In-Between” State

A key part of this mental condition is being stuck in an in-between space. The person is not happy, but they are also not actively suicidal. Instead, they exist in a state of survival, where life feels dull and meaningless but still continues. This creates a feeling of being trapped in routine without emotional engagement.

Example lyric: “A little bit tired of sinking, there’s water in my boat”




Functioning on Autopilot

Although the person is struggling internally, they continue their daily life. They go to school or work, talk to people, and follow routines, but it feels automatic rather than intentional. Their body is present, but their mind feels distant, creating a sense of disconnection from their own actions.

Example lyric: “I’m barely breathing, trying to stay afloat”



Disconnection From Self

The individual often feels separated from their own identity and experiences. It can feel as though they are watching life happen rather than actively living it. This emotional distance makes it difficult to feel grounded or fully present in the moment.

Example lyric: “Guess I’m just broken and broke”

                          




Social Masking

Outwardly, the person appears normal. They smile, respond in conversations, and say they are fine, even when they are not. This masking hides their internal struggle, which makes the condition more invisible to others and adds to their sense of isolation.



“Quick Repairs” Coping

Instead of addressing their emotions directly, the person relies on small distractions to cope. These might include using their phone, listening to music, sleeping, or avoiding thoughts. These actions provide temporary relief but do not solve the deeper emotional issue.



Quiet Hopelessness

Underlying everything is a subtle sense of hopelessness. It is not dramatic despair, but a quiet belief that nothing will really improve. The person lowers their expectations for happiness and continues life with little emotional investment. 



Learning Outcome

From this song, we can understand how mental health struggles can be subtle yet deeply impactful. The song highlights emotional numbness, burnout, and coping mechanisms that are invisible to others. It encourages viewers to recognize that not all struggles are dramatic or visible and that surviving day-to-day can be emotionally exhausting. This MV humanizes mental illness by showing how someone can appear “fine” externally while experiencing deep internal fatigue, helping audiences develop empathy and awareness for real-life emotional struggles.

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