Depression and suicide are major concerns for teens and young adults of the 21st century. The World Health Organization estimates that over 800,000 people die by suicide each year, with the 15-29 age group particularly affected. This link between music-use and depression in young people has led to music being blamed for the depression of youth. Artists were even sued by parents of children who had committed suicide because of the music they listened to.

For most, listening to music – even music expressing emotions like sadness or anger – can be an effective way to deal with emotions. Sadness can be a healthy emotion to experience in response to corresponding events in our lives. It motivates us to think carefully about our situations and to make room for improvement.

Music, such as rock and heavy metal, help people who suffer from anxiety and depression. Most songs from these genres are about the sadness that others feel. When people listen to the lyrics, they realize that they are not alone because others go through the same struggle.

Studies have also shown that rock and heavy metal help those with anger calm down.

"Extreme music" has gotten a bad reputation and the rumors that are said are untrue. I've enjoyed rock, heavy metal, and even screamo since middle school, and I still do to this day. Music is a great way to help connect, interact, and make sense of the world we live in. It's an artistic expression.

Extreme music — or even any music — helps us identify and match feelings. Music has such a therapeutic quality and it helps us better regulate emotions and connect with life experiences. It emphasizes the message that none of us are alone in this world.

More importantly, it lets us know that somebody out there understands us.