The importance of podcasts for our mental health

They are more than just background noise

ISABELLA SANCHEZ / ASST. A&C EDITOR / THE USD VISTA

While the beginning of May marks the start of “Mental Health Awareness month,” it also marks the end of the semester. It is the time where almost every student starts to feel the weight of finals crashing down on them. 

With so many papers to write and projects to complete, it can start to feel like taking a mental break is impossible. Yet, people don’t realize that better mental health can be just a stream away. Podcasts are an accessible and enjoyable way to take care of your mental health state, especially during the stressful weeks coming up. 

Podcast popularity skyrocketed in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID lockdown, and for good reason. They are an excellent way to relax and learn more about self-care. They are also convenient. Instead of finding the free time to crack open a self-help book, you can listen to a podcast while also completing other tasks. 

It takes only a couple of seconds to press play and stream one while you are walking to class, exercising, or even cooking. There are plenty of ways that podcasts can benefit your mental health. 

Podcasts allow you to not feel alone

What sets podcasts apart is the fact that it feels much more personable than just reading words on a page. Listening to people talk about their own struggles and give advice from past experiences sparks the realization that you are not alone in your own experiences. 

This type of content allows you to connect to not only a person’s story but also the person themselves. Listening to someone recount experiences or talk about a specific life topic and give advice is not only extremely helpful, but also therapeutic. 

“Anything Goes” by Emma Chamberlain is a great pick since there is an episode for just about any mood a person is in, and a variety of topics, like how to gain positive mental health, how to treat others, friendships, and more. She is open and honest about her experiences and talks about topics that everyone can relate to, like existential crises and figuring out one’s identity. It can be streamed on platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Ramble.

Podcasts can help you destress and relax

According to materials scientist and engineer, Titi Shodiya, who hosts “Dope Labs” podcast, consuming podcasts can stimulate multiple parts of the brain. It can trigger the “reward pathway,” releasing dopamine throughout the brain. This feel-good chemical is what is responsible for pleasure and most importantly, is what makes you feel good. 

Listening to your favorite podcast can quite literally cause a beneficial chemical reaction in your brain. Destressing through podcasts can look different for everybody; for some it can be about having a good laugh with a comedy podcast and for others it can be about unwinding with a calming podcast. Podcasts can allow you to remove yourself from a stressful situation and focus on something else for a while. 

“Slow Radio” by BBC Radio 3 calls itself “an anecdote to today’s frenzied world.” Each episode brings listeners soundscapes from around the world. It offers soothing sounds to aid in concentration or relaxation. It consists of ambient sounds and instructs you to “step back, let go” and to “immerse yourself.” It can be streamed on platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and BBC Radio’s website. 

Podcasts can teach you something

If you want a podcast to specifically teach you how to be a better you, then self-help podcasts are the go-to. There are some that touch upon motivation, anxiety, and mindsets. You can learn from renowned psychologists, authors, and lecturers. They can provide a safe space for people to learn more about mental health issues or for people to listen to valuable insight and knowledge. 

If you want to be more productive even when you are tired, get out of your comfort zone, or learn how to reduce anxiety, then there is a self-help podcast out there for you. “On Purpose” by Jay Shetty is a popular choice as he talks about a diverse selection of topics like relationships, habits, and the power of positivity. He does solo episodes and episodes with celebrities where they talk about important life topics. It can be streamed on platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Audible. 

Podcasts are not only a form of entertainment; they are educational and beneficial for your mind, too. 

With the convenience of podcasts, allowing yourself to take a mental break can be while you are simply getting ready in the morning or grocery shopping. If you need a pick-me-up during a hard school day or inspiration for your life, a podcast is always a tap away.