Tara FinleyDepression is the leading cause of disability worldwide. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), nearly one-half of those diagnosed with depression will also be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder.
The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that more than 17 million adults in the United States have at least one major depressive episode in a year. Yet, despite its prevalence, depression still is not widely talked about.
lovelytheband takes some time to discuss the importance of mental health with host and Publisher Brian Calle on this week’s episode of the L.A. Weekly podcast.
“When I was growing up in high school and in my household, it was never really a thing that was talked about,” says Mitchy Collins, vocalist for the band. “Mental health really wasn’t a conversation.”
A big part of the band’s outspoken advocacy for mental health comes from their desire to not have others go through the same struggles of being undiagnosed and unhappy.
While their talent as musicians is celebrated, so is their trademark style of authenticity and vulnerability. A band that is accessible to everyone, their influence has seen them as celebrity mentors on American Idol. Their talent won them an iHeartRadio Music Award for Best New Rock/Alternative Artist in 2019, and got them nominated for Billboard Music Awards’ Top Rock Artist and Top Rock Song in the same year.
lovelytheband dropped their new summer single “idwgtyp” today (July 2) and their new studio album “conversations with myself about you” is slated for worldwide release on August 28.
Photo courtesy of lovelytheband
In the band’s biography, Mitchy gives us some insight as to how the band forms a lasting connection to fans. “I really believe the importance of songwriting is saying something when someone else doesn’t know how to,” affirms the frontman. “In the songs, I’m talking about life, trials, tribulations, depression, anxiety, and shit I deal with as well as the headaches that come along with the good and bad days. My problems don’t define me, but we should embrace every side of who we are.”
The group’s debut single “Broken” spent six weeks at the top of the charts in 2018. In under a year, it went on to amass 25 million total global streams. The data proves it: lovelytheband is a band for everyone. And they are using their platform to make positive change.
“As connected as we are, the human connection is fleeting,” explains the band. “As negative as it can be, the hurt causes growth.”
Using their voice, the band is telling everyone “seek help if you need it, and don’t be embarrassed about it.” We desperately need more voices in that regard, especially today, where it seems the year is getting worse by the month.
Their ultimate message? Feel your feelings. No toxic masculinity or macho bravo here.
“Don’t be afraid to live on your couch for one day and go through it,” advises Mitchy. Once that day is over? Go outside. Wandering around outdoors is a favorite head-clearing pastime of the group.
“I can think a bit clearer and see the light at the end of the tunnel a bit easier if I do that,” says guitarist Jordan Greenwald.
While walks are great for now, the band really can’t wait to get back on stage.
“The first show we play again, we’re probably going to cry,” they laugh.
Listen to this week’s podcast here or find it on iTunes here and Spotify here for more on taking care of your mental health, as well as what’s next for @mitchycollins, @jordangreenwald and @sampricedrums as a group and as solo artists.
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