What Your Spotify Wrapped Says About Your Mental Health

The end of the year is here, and with it comes Spotify Wrapped — the highly anticipated musical roundup that turns our private listening habits into a public spectacle. Since its debut in 2016, Wrapped has captured our attention for good reason: it offers more than just a playlist. It’s a mirror reflecting the moods, emotions, and milestones we’ve experienced over the past year.

By analyzing our top artists, songs, genres, and podcasts, Spotify Wrapped creates a colorful slideshow that invites us to reflect on who we are and where we’ve been. For some, it’s a badge of honor to share — proof of being a true Swiftie or having an eclectic music taste. For others, it sparks anxiety, leading to a wave of preemptive excuses on social media: “I swear my toddler took over my playlist!”

But beyond the social media buzz, Spotify Wrapped can offer valuable insights into our mental health.

How Music Reflects Your State of Mind

“Our top artists, genres, and songs can offer insights into our state of mind throughout the year,” says psychologist Becky Spelman, PhD. “They reflect our moods, interests, and experiences and can even trigger emotional memories — both positive and negative.”

Think back to a tough period this year. Did you find yourself leaning into moody ballads or comforting classics? Research suggests we gravitate toward familiar music during difficult times because it provides stability and a sense of control.

Whether it’s replaying a breakup anthem in June or switching to upbeat tracks in September when life started looking brighter, our listening habits often mirror our emotional journeys.

Why We Play Songs on Repeat

If you’re someone who gets hooked on one song or album and listens to it on repeat, you’re not alone. This habit often points to an emotional connection with the music.

“Repetition allows us to dictate our environment and find comfort in familiarity,” explains Dr. Spelman. “It can also suggest a desire for control, especially in moments of stress or uncertainty.”

For example, replaying the same soothing track might help calm nerves before a big presentation, or a nostalgic song may transport you back to a comforting memory.

The Social Pressure of Sharing

Of course, Spotify Wrapped isn’t just about self-reflection — it’s also a cultural phenomenon. Sharing your results can feel exciting but also nerve-wracking.

According to Dr. Spelman, feeling anxious about unconventional music choices or “embarrassing” top songs might reflect a need for validation or a fear of being judged.

Wrapped has a unique way of exposing our vulnerabilities and quirks, offering a glimpse into the deeper parts of ourselves that we may not always share with others.

Music as a Tool for Mental Health

Whether your Wrapped fills you with pride or prompts you to cringe, it’s important to remember the bigger picture: music is a powerful tool for mental health. It reduces stress, alleviates anxiety, and helps us express emotions that words can’t always capture.

So, embrace your unique soundtrack. Whether your top song is a Broadway show tune, a country ballad, or a ’90s throwback, let it remind you of the joy, comfort, or growth it brought you this year.

If you’re not ready to share it with the world, consider sharing it with your therapist — music can open doors to conversations that words might not.

Final Thoughts: Reflect, Celebrate, and Grow

This year, let your Spotify Wrapped be more than a trend. Use it as a starting point to reflect on your emotional journey, celebrate your authentic self, and carry those insights into the new year.

Your soundtrack is uniquely yours — embrace it.