Medicate
Flaw
The Struggle of Self-Medication: A Deep Dive into Flaw's 'Medicate'
Flaw's song 'Medicate' delves into the harrowing experience of someone grappling with mental health issues and the desperate measures they take to cope. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of sleepless nights and overwhelming anxiety, as the protagonist lies awake, tightly wound with worry and doubt. The repetition of phrases like 'I've been lying awake at night' and 'I've been winding myself too tight' underscores the relentless nature of their struggle, suggesting a cycle of insomnia and stress that seems inescapable.
The chorus, with its haunting question 'Will sickness be mine?' reflects a deep-seated fear of succumbing to their mental health issues. The protagonist acknowledges their growing coldness and the internal battle they face, hinting at a sense of numbness or emotional detachment. This internal conflict is further emphasized by the line 'I shouldn't let it slide,' indicating a recognition of the need for intervention but also a sense of helplessness in stopping the downward spiral.
The most poignant part of the song is the admission of self-medication as a coping mechanism. The lines 'I've got to medicate myself, I'm not concerned about my health' reveal a troubling reliance on substances to numb the pain and cover up their emotional turmoil. This act of self-medication is portrayed as both a temporary relief and a dangerous crutch, highlighting the protagonist's desperation and the vicious cycle of dependency. The repeated assertion 'Sickness is mine' at the end of the song serves as a bleak acceptance of their condition, encapsulating the pervasive sense of hopelessness and resignation.