The song 'It's Been Awhile' by Staind is a poignant reflection on personal struggles, self-acknowledgment, and the journey towards self-improvement. It delves into themes of addiction, self-love, and the impact of one's actions on themselves and their relationships. Through its verses, the song narrates the singer's realization of their shortcomings, their battles with personal demons, and the moments of clarity in the midst of chaos. The chorus emphasizes the difficulty in remembering the past without the pain of the consequences faced, suggesting a long journey of self-inflicted hardship. Ultimately, the song is a candid confession of the singer's faults and their desire to apologize and make amends, highlighting a moment of vulnerability and the hope for redemption.

The song delves into the complex emotions and struggles of the narrator, presumably Aaron Lewis, grappling with addiction and its impact on self-perception and relationships. It candidly explores the theme of struggling with substance abuse, where the euphoria of drug use is juxtaposed with the harsh realities of addiction, including the challenge of staying clean and the negative self-image that follows. The lyrics also touch upon the idea of personal responsibility and the influence of familial relationships on one's decisions, particularly in the context of substance abuse and treatment of others. The narrator reflects on the difficulty of moving on from past behaviors and the constant battle with temptation and withdrawal. Through these reflections, the song presents a raw and honest look at the journey of overcoming addiction and the ongoing fight for self-improvement.