Underwater

Mackenzie Arromba's song 'Underwater' delves deep into the emotional turmoil and isolation experienced by someone grappling with mental health issues. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person feeling lost, unheard, and weighed down by their thoughts. The recurring imagery of drowning and being underwater serves as a powerful metaphor for the suffocating nature of depression and anxiety. The protagonist questions their existence and the indifference of others, highlighting the often invisible struggle faced by those with mental health challenges.

The song's chorus, 'Words are spoken underwater, through the echoes in the waves,' suggests a sense of being trapped and unable to communicate effectively. This line encapsulates the frustration of feeling misunderstood or dismissed, as the protagonist's cries for help seem to go unheard. The mention of being told that mental disorders are 'all in my head' reflects the stigma and lack of understanding that many people with mental health issues encounter. This dismissive attitude only exacerbates the protagonist's feelings of hopelessness and isolation.

In the final verses, the protagonist expresses a desire to escape their pain, even if it means succumbing to numbness or death. The repeated plea, 'Don't wake me up, I've had enough,' underscores the depth of their despair. Despite the bleakness, there is a glimmer of hope in the line, 'Maybe everything gets better if I don't try to escape,' suggesting that acceptance and facing one's struggles head-on might lead to healing. 'Underwater' is a poignant reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and support for those battling mental health issues.