Lauren Alaina reminds all music fans that it's OK to be wrong.
during the 2026 Academy of Country Music Awards on Sunday, May 17, Alaina, 31, chose to bring attention to Mental Health Awareness Month before inviting Dan + Shay on stage.
“Sometimes, uplifting lives can mean saving lives. May Mental Health Awareness Month also be an important time to say that if you are suffering in private, you are not alone,” Alaina shared with the audience inside the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. “Like many of you out there, I know what it's like to lose someone with mental health issues, so for anyone here tonight who is struggling, please know that there is always someone listening and someone who can help.
Alaina couldn't hide her emotions as tears began to stream down her face.
After thinking to herself, “Oh, man, OK, I'm doing a good job,” she took a deep breath and began sharing why Dan + Shay's new song “Say So” is so meaningful.
“My two friends, Dan + Shay, have a powerful new single 'Say So' inspired by the tragic loss in our country music family,” he said. “When I first heard you, [I knew] this song will save people's lives.”
In accordance with Dan Smyers again Shay Mooneytheir song was inspired by their best friend and mentor, Ben Vaughnwho died by suicide in January 2025 at the age of 49.
“When your light goes out and you're in the dark / When you can't pick up the pieces / When the world you trusted falls apart / When your heart runs out of reasons / I'll be there every time you call,” the duo sings on the song's lyrics. “To pick you up every time you fall / If you're walking through hell, you're not alone / If you need someone, say so.”
The performance was part of ACM Lifting Lives, which Alaina described as a philanthropy partner of the Academy of Country Music.
“It focuses on improving lives through the power of music,” he said.
Alaina has been open about her mental health issues. The first one American Idol contestant she said he had depression at the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. He later recorded his experience in his album Living Well at the Top of the World.
The 2026 ACM Awards are streaming on Prime Video.
If you or someone you know is struggling or struggling, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
