Institutionalized

Suicidal Tendencies' song "Institutionalized" is a raw and powerful expression of frustration and alienation. The lyrics narrate the experiences of a young man, Mike, who feels misunderstood and pressured by those around him. Despite his efforts to solve his problems independently, he is constantly met with suggestions to seek help or talk about his issues. This external pressure builds up inside him, leading to a sense of being overwhelmed and misunderstood. The song captures the tension between individual autonomy and societal expectations, highlighting the protagonist's struggle to maintain his sense of self in the face of external pressures.

The chorus of the song, with its repeated lines "I'm not crazy - Institution / You're the one who's crazy - Institution / You're driving me crazy - Institution," underscores the protagonist's frustration with being labeled and misunderstood. He feels that the institutions meant to help him are, in fact, the ones driving him to the brink of insanity. The lyrics suggest a critique of the mental health system, portraying it as a mechanism that imposes conformity rather than genuinely addressing individual needs. The protagonist's repeated requests for something as simple as a Pepsi become a symbol of his desire for autonomy and normalcy in a world that seems intent on pathologizing his behavior.

The song also touches on themes of parental misunderstanding and generational conflict. Mike's interactions with his parents reveal a deep disconnect, as they interpret his behavior as a sign of drug use or mental instability. This misinterpretation leads to a decision to institutionalize him, further alienating him from those who are supposed to understand and support him. The lyrics poignantly capture the protagonist's sense of betrayal and helplessness, as he questions how those who have shaped his upbringing can now deem him crazy. The song ultimately serves as a powerful commentary on the struggles of maintaining individuality and sanity in a society that often prioritizes conformity and control over genuine understanding and support.