Individuals across the industry have shown incredible resilience over the past 18 months, but this constant display of strength often comes at a cost, through feelings of stress, burnout, anxiety, depression – to name just a few. Like in many industries, mental health is often overlooked or undisclosed. Whatever the triggers may be – the pandemic, personal reasons or work-related stress – mental health should not be ignored.
Help Musicians, an independent charity providing support to musicians across the UK, saw a 65% increase in mental health assistance requests in 2021. In a recent survey, they also revealed that 87% of musicians surveyed suffered from pandemic-related mental health issues. (Source: Guitar World, August 2021)
Getting help is often easier said than done, and additional fears and apprehension can turn into roadblocks. The fear of losing employment, fear of what others may think, financial difficulties or facing a taboo subject – all of which can get in the way of recovery. Employers play a crucial role in the wellbeing of their people and can help them by creating a safe environment and making mental health support available to them.
Following on from World Mental Health Day held on Sunday 10 October 2021, here is a non-exhaustive list of resources and organisations supporting the mental health of industry professionals.
Make sure to bookmark it. It’s always there, whenever you need it.
- SOLT and UK Theatre share a comprehensive list of mental health and wellbeing resources for theatre professionals. View list here: https://uktheatre.org/theatre-industry/guidance-reports-and-resources/wellbeing/
- Music Support – Founded by people from inside the music industry, Music Support is dedicated to supporting the mental health of professionals in the music and live events industry. It also provides guidance and advice for people affected by addiction.
Full list of resources and other mental health organisations can be found at: https://musicsupport.org/resources/. You can also call 0800 030 6789 to speak with a trained industry peer.
- Maggie Supernova – Maggie is a life coach and specialises in Burnout Prevention and Recovery, helping overwhelmed, stressed-out, burnt-out women find meaning and purpose in their lives again. Maggie is also a certified Yoga teacher (Vinyasa, Yin & Yoga Nidra) and experienced Meditation guide. Recommended by a STAR Council Member!
- Thrive App – Award-winning, NHS-approved wellbeing app. Get a one-year free subscription (for a limited time only) with Music Support via this link: https://musicsupport.org/thrive-app/
- Mind, Music Sector Guides – The UK’s leading mental health charity has created guides with advice for organisations, employees, artist managers and freelancers.
Visit mind.org.uk for more information about their campaigns and contact details for urgent support.
- Help Musicians UK / Music Minds Matter – Free, confidential, 24/7 mental health support for anyone working in the music industry. Call: 0808 802 8008
- Theatre Helpline – A free, independent and confidential phone and email service that provides support to people working in the theatre industry on a multitude of topics, including bullying, mental and physical health, professional development, retirement, debt, and more.
- Playing Sane – A UK based not-for-profit organisation for actors, their colleagues and carers, working to improve experience and practice around mental health throughout the industry.
- British Association for Performing Arts Medicine – Provide physical and mental health care for anyone working in the performing arts. BAPAM also offer free online events and courses on mental wellbeing.
- ArtsMinds – Provides a raft of resources for performers and creative practitioners facing mental health issues. This collaborative initiative was formed by the BAPAM (British Association of Performing Arts Medicine), Equity, Spotlight and The Stage.
- EventWell – A charitable social enterprise dedicated to educating, campaigning and supporting better mental health and wellbeing for professionals across the UK events industry.
- NHS, Every Mind Matters – This NHS website aims to support everyone, including children and young people, to feel more confident in taking action to look after their mental health and wellbeing.
- Young Minds – The UK’s leading charity fighting for children and young people’s mental health. Young Minds offer training courses and resources for both young people and parents.
- Samaritans – A free, confidential service providing emotional support for anyone who’s struggling to cope, who needs someone to listen without judgment or pressure.
- CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – CALM stands against suicide and run a free and confidential helpline and webchat (open from 5pm to midnight every day), for anyone who needs to talk about life’s problems.
- For a more detailed list of mental health resources for drama students, teachers and schools, visit: https://www.dramaandtheatre.co.uk/features/article/mental-wellbeing-resources-for-drama-students-teachers-and-schools
Sources and additional information:
- https://musiciansunion.org.uk/health-safety-wellbeing/mental-health-and-wellbeing/mental-health-support
- https://uktheatre.org/theatre-industry/guidance-reports-and-resources/wellbeing/
- https://www.nme.com/news/music/mental-health-resources-for-music-industry-workers-are-being-shared-in-time-for-christmas-2835985
- https://www.nme.com/news/music/musicians-and-road-crew-see-rise-in-depression-and-anxiety-but-help-is-at-hand-2778647
- https://www.nme.com/blogs/am-i-depressed-how-to-tell-2067753
- https://www.dramaandtheatre.co.uk/features/article/mental-wellbeing-resources-for-drama-students-teachers-and-schools
- https://www.abtt.org.uk/resources-guidance/industry-resources/mental-health-and-well-being-resources/
- https://www.ukmusic.org/advice/mental-health/
- https://www.functioncentral.co.uk/mental-health/
