There's been a lot of negativity and tragedy broadcast in the media lately. It's practically inescapable. Maybe you're going through a tough time in your life as well, or maybe you're struggling with your own demons. For times like these, it's hard to really see the positive side to anything. For me and a lot of my friends, music helps us get through the hard times in our lives, whether they be family issues, relationship problems, school/work stress, or even personal problems. I wanted to share some songs that've encouraged or touched me in some way, and I hope they'll do the same for you.

1. "Arise" by Flyleaf

This song is so empowering; it urges the reader to hold on "to the world we all remember fighting for" and to "be all that you dreamed." With moving lyrics and Lacey's powerful voice, it's nearly impossible for this song not to encourage anyone.

2. "It Gets Better" by Todrick Hall

This video will bring you to tears. (Also, trigger warnings for implied suicide, scenes of bullying, and transphobia as well as homophobia.) This song's message is in the title: life does get better, and it's worth living. No matter what, don't give up.

3. "Just Right" by GOT7

This is a K-pop song a friend of mine introduced me to during my last semester of Wingate. Out of all the songs she showed me, this was one of the ones that really stuck with me due to its message on self-esteem and self-positivity. It reminds you that you're "just right" the way you are regardless of your "flaws." If you have self-esteem issues like I do, I definitely recommend this song. Make sure you watch with subtitles, though, unless you understand Korean.

4. "Keep Singing" by Rick Astley

This song I discovered on Tumblr of all places; I didn't even know Rick Astley was still making music until I heard this. This song particularly spoke to me since music, especially singing, helps me get through hard times. Keep singing; keep living, and "you'll be saved some sunny day from throwing your life away."

5. "Bridge of Light" by P!nk

This song reminds you that you no matter how dark life may seem, you can brighten it. Spread love; it's what we need to do now more than ever. Only love can defeat hate. Only love can defeat violence. "Only love can build us a bridge of light."

6. "Find A Way" by Andy Lange

I wrote an article about Andy last week, but I didn't feature this song. "Find A Way's" a song that reminds you to stay strong no matter what life throws at you and to ask for help from others. This can be hard for a lot of people, but no one can live completely isolated from everyone else. Even if you can find just one person to relate to you or one thing that keeps you going, you can make it, and Andy does a great job of sharing this message through his song.

7. "Unlock" by Daichi Miura

I've also written about Daichi Miura in a previous article, but I didn't mention this song. This one also has a powerful reminder: sometimes, we're the ones who hold ourselves back from reaching our full potential; sometimes, we're the only ones who can "unlock" ourselves to be all that we can be. Discard the fears and insecurities that keep you down; "unlock yourself."

8. "Rise" by Skillet

Sometimes life is a struggle; during those times, you have to fight to get a better future. Will you "rise" to the occasion? It's hard not to when listening to this song.

9. "Better Days" by Nick Pitera

This song is also about life getting better in the future. They will come, regardless of where you're at in life right now. Again, don't give up; look forward to the "better days" to come.

10. "End Of The Dream" by Evanescence

Evanescence is one of my favorite bands; there's just something about their music (and Amy Lee's voice) that just speaks to me in particular. The chorus of this song is what I love the most; it goes, "As much as it hurts, ain't it wonderful to feel/ So go on and break your wings/ Follow your heart til it bleeds/ As we run towards the end of the dream." Life does get painful at times, but it's better than feeling nothing at all. Dreams are not only worth having, but also worth fighting for (so long as they benefit humanity as a whole).

11. "Hope Of Morning" by Icon for Hire

When you first hear this song, it doesn't really sound positive. So why did it make this list? Simple: the chorus. Regardless of what happens in life, Ariel Bloomer says that the "hope of morning" keeps her going and helps her not to give in to the darkness of her mind; I hope this will be your hope as well.

12. "Stand in the Light" by Jordan Smith

Beautiful melody, lyrics, and music video, this song reminds you to be yourself unapologetically. With so much hatred and discrimination going on today, this can be hard to do for a lot of people, but it's worth it. You deserve to be who you are. You're a gift to this world, and we need you. Be you; no one else can do that for you.

13. "Who You Are" by Jessie J

Jessie J's voice is definitely a force to be reckoned with. One of her earliest songs, this one reminds you to just be you no matter how hard life gets. No matter what, "don't lose who you are;" stay true to yourself always.

14. "Brave" by The Nearly Deads

This song just makes you feel like a superhero. It reminds you that although no one's invincible, everyone can continue living and make something with their lives so long as they have the courage and will to do so.

15. "Borders" by Amber

Amber's another artist that a friend of mine introduced me to. Although this is another Kpop song, the lyrics are in English. This video brought me close to tears. "Borders" is about getting through the hard times in your life. Both her singing and rapping are amazing in this. This song will definitely lift your spirits.

As you've probably noticed, I listen to a variety of music. There's just so much to listen to, and the majority of what I hear I enjoy. There are so many other songs that've impacted my life; this list is just a sampling. I also tried to pick a few songs/artists that may not be as well known to promote other artists (some obviously are pretty famous, though). I hope these songs helped you in some way. What are some songs you listen to when you need some encouragement?