Michaels has been open about her own struggles with anxiety and panic attacks, which deeply informed the "raw" and "real" feeling of the track. Composition and Production
The song was written in about an hour following a "stupid" fight Michaels had with her boyfriend. At the time, her boyfriend (a music producer) was working in a neighboring studio while she channeled her frustration into the lyrics. Julia Michaels - Issues
It explores the vulnerabilities and "baggage" present in a relationship. The core message is that while both partners have their own mental and emotional struggles, they are willing to accept each other's flaws to stay together. Michaels has been open about her own struggles