Feeling Electric

“Feeling Electric” from the musical *Next to Normal* delves into the complex and often tumultuous experience of mental health treatment. The song is a vivid portrayal of Diana's journey through electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), a treatment for severe depression. Dr. Madden, the psychiatrist, describes the procedure in almost mystical terms, promising a rebirth through the electric currents. His words, “I can be the beacon that you seek in every dawn,” suggest a savior-like role, offering hope and a new beginning through the power of electricity. The metaphor of electricity symbolizes both the potential for healing and the intense, sometimes frightening, nature of the treatment.

The song also highlights the contrasting experiences of Diana and her daughter, Natalie. While Diana is undergoing ECT, Natalie is experimenting with various drugs, both prescribed and recreational. Her dialogue with Henry reveals a sense of desperation and a search for escape, mirroring her mother's struggles but through different means. Natalie's sarcastic remark, “That's persuasive, coming from the Pfizer woman of the year!” underscores the irony and frustration she feels towards her mother's reliance on medical treatments. This interaction emphasizes the generational impact of mental illness and the different ways individuals cope with it.

The recurring theme of feeling “electric” serves as a powerful metaphor for the highs and lows of mental health treatment. The electrifying sensation represents both the physical effects of ECT and the emotional rollercoaster experienced by those undergoing such treatments. The song's energetic and almost chaotic nature reflects the inner turmoil and the hope for a brighter future. The final lines, “How are you feeling Diana?” and “Honey?” bring the focus back to the personal, human aspect of the experience, reminding us that behind the medical procedures and treatments, there are real people seeking relief and understanding.