[1][2] Described by Platten as "the medicine I needed in the darkest moments of my life",[3] the album tackles her struggles with mental health issues, such as anxiety and postpartum depression, dealing with the public perception of her as an artist, as well her departure from her former major record label, events that happened during her seven year hiatus.

But you kept listening and writing me and creating videos with my songs and you shared and streamed and you messaged me, so many of you with your own deeply personal stories of your own dark nights, and how my music helped you.

[12] A third single titled, "Bad Thoughts" was released on April 26, alongside an official music video, directed by Jade Ehlers and Brooke Harcrow.

[25][26][27][28][29] Writing for American Songwriter, Robyn Flans praised the album and Platten's confidence, stating that I Am Rachel Platten is a "declaration of freedom, her proclamation of maturation, her edict of growth, the bullhorn to the world that she is back stronger, secure, and solid.

"[30] Gabrielle Groves of Music Scene Media praised the album lyrical relatability, as well her emotional vocal performance, writing that "While most people wouldn’t think of voice cracks as a good thing, Platten is one of the few artists who can make them sound graceful.

"[31] Robert Frezza of The Aquarian dubbed the record as "an incredible collection of songs", while praising the lyrical content saying: "If her mission was to spread positivity and strength through, she has completed it 10 times over.