The Fan Who Said Listening To Astral Weeks Helped Them Recover From A Nervous Breakdown

April 1, 2025

I remember the day life felt too heavy to carry. I had just finished my first year of high school, and everything seemed to crumble around me. Friends drifted away, homework piled up, and the pressure to succeed felt unbearable. I was in the depths of a nervous breakdown, a place where darkness lingered, and hope seemed like a distant memory. But then, on one of those gray afternoons, I stumbled upon an album that would change my life forever—Van Morrison’s “Astral Weeks.”

As the first notes of “Astral Weeks” filled my room, I was instantly transported to another world. The music had a magic that felt both familiar and foreign. Van Morrison’s voice wrapped around me like a warm blanket, easing the pain that had settled in my heart. Each song was a journey, weaving tales of love, longing, and a quest for meaning. I found myself lost in the ethereal melodies and poetic lyrics, feeling as if Morrison was speaking directly to me. It was as if he understood my struggles, my fears, and my dreams.

The album wasn’t a quick fix, but it became a lifeline. Over the weeks, I played it on repeat, letting the sounds seep into my soul. I learned about Van Morrison’s own battles as a struggling artist. He had faced rejection and doubt, yet he poured his heart and vulnerability into “Astral Weeks,” creating something beautiful out of chaos. His resilience inspired me—here was a man who had felt lost, but turned that pain into art that resonated with millions. I began to believe that if he could rise from the depths, maybe I could, too.

Little by little, I started to find my own way back. I discovered the power of music, not just as a form of escape but as a means to heal. Each listen to “Astral Weeks” helped me process my emotions, pulling me back into the light with every strum of the guitar and whisper of the flute. I began to write my own songs and poetry, creating a safe space where I could express my feelings. The more I wrote, the more I felt my spirit lift, and soon, I found joy in the little things again.

Eventually, I emerged from that dark tunnel, stronger and more hopeful. Van Morrison’s music had shown me the way, guiding me through the shadows and into a new dawn. I started sharing my music and stories with friends, and their support filled my life with warmth. I realized that just as Morrison had transformed his struggles into something beautiful, I, too, could turn my pain into purpose.

Today, when I listen to “Astral Weeks,” it serves as a reminder of my journey, a testament to the healing power of music and the strength we all possess within us. Van Morrison may have created that album decades ago, but its message remains timeless: even in our darkest moments, there’s always a way to find light and hope. As I look back, I feel gratitude for the artist who helped me reclaim my life, proving that through music, we can find connection, understanding, and ultimately, ourselves.