The Medical University of Vienna conducted research in which it reported that music could be a drive for the good. For example, the researchers submit that a song by a hip-hop artist named Logic has lowered the rate of suicides in the U.S. 

The song titled “1-800-273-8255” has contributed to a decrease in the rate of suicides and an increased use of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The song’s fame and reception, observe how important it is to discuss mental issues publicly. 

How the song “1-800-273-8255 reduced the rate of suicide 

Logic’s song title is part of the contact information of the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The lyrics tell a story of a person who turns their life around and gets better psychologically after contacting the lifeline. 

The results outline how vital it is always to discuss mental health issues both public and in private. The researchers appreciate the importance of hip-hop artists publicly discussing such topics in their craft. The song begins an open discussion about mental health and related issues. 

The song’s message made a tangible difference as suicide rates have reduced by 6% since its release. Researchers assessed any connections the song had to this reduction by placing calls to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and analyzing Twitter activity by gauging the song’s attention for more than a month.   

Researchers make recommendations on mental health awareness

Previous research has reported that incidents such as a celebrity’s suicide coverage trigger a rise in the overall suicide rate. Therefore, this revelation shows the need to create more positive suicide-related coverage that spreads hope and recovery. 

The song “1-800-275-8255” featured as number three on the U.S. Billboard Charts and was performed at the 2018 Grammys and the 2017 MTV Music Awards. Researchers admit that the song’s credit on the fight against mental health cannot be refuted despite their findings being mostly observational. 

Working with sectors such as the entertainment industry to promote impactful stories on mental health is key. Social media is another platform that people utilize to seek help or create awareness over mental health and related issues.