Muzyczne portrety depresji i samobójstwa: analiza międzykulturowa
Musical portrails of depression and suicide. A cross-cultural analysis

Summary/Abstract: The article addresses how different musical cultures approach the themes of depression and suicide, while also analyzing the social and psychological consequences of such content. Music, as a universal means of expression, plays a multifaceted role in its relationship with the topic of mental health crises, serving as a therapeutic tool, a warning signal, and, at times, negatively affecting sensitive individuals. Different cultures and musical genres present these challenging topics in diverse ways. In Western cultures, the narrative is often raw and introspective, particularly in rock and grunge, where emotional honesty dominates. In Asian genres such as K-pop, the theme of depression is portrayed subtly and metaphorically, reflecting a cultural tendency to avoid direct confrontation with mental health issues. Folk and traditional music embed depression and suicide within moral and social narratives, often as a cautionary element, while hip-hop delivers brutally honest, autobiographical accounts, highlighting the links between mental health crises and social contexts such as violence and poverty. Music can serve a therapeutic role by helping individuals express their emotions and fostering a sense of community support. However, it also carries the risk of negative influence, particularly in the context of romanticizing suicide. Social reactions to such content vary widely—from recognizing its value as an educational tool to concerns about its impact on emotionally vulnerable individuals. Narratives also differ between musical genres: pop often combines emotional introspection with a universal message of hope, classical music conveys emotions in a universal and symbolic manner, and folk and ballads function as moral storytelling. The article emphasizes that music, regardless of cultural or genre context, has significant potential to shape perceptions of depression and suicide, offering both a platform for dialogue and a means of reflecting on mental health. The author highlights the need for conscious use of music in mental health prevention strategies, taking into account its impact on different social and cultural groups.

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