Music has a way of opening our hearts and helping us feel more connected to others, to ourselves, and to the world around us. As a result, it is a direct line to our emotions and state of being. Individuals in the music industry are making music that heals others, but more often than not, their own emotional and mental health needs are being neglected. And as a result, the music industry as whole faces mental health issues and concerns in both their personal and professional lives. From the road crew to management to the artist, no one is immune to the pressures of creating, promoting, performing and touring. The"daily grind" from working in the industry can exacerbate (or in some cases create) issues with depression, anxiety, loneliness, frustration, self care, balancing home and work life, eating disorders, substance use, and self harm.
In a 2018 study from the Music Industry Research Association, 50 percent of musicians reported battling symptoms of depression, compared with less than 25 percent of the general adult population. Nearly 12 percent reported having suicidal thoughts — nearly four times the general population.
According to a 2019 study published by Swedish digital-distribution platform Record Union found that 73 percent of independent musicians have battled stress, anxiety, and depression. More recently (in pre-pandemic 2020), a major research study through the Tour Health Research Initiative found:
34% of touring professionals suffered from clinical levels of depression,
70% reported trouble sleeping,
83% reported feeling overworked,
79% reported experiencing significant worry regarding their financial stability,
45% reported drinking alcohol regularly,
74% reported that touring strained their relationships.
26% reported serious suicidal ideation,
58% reported losing a tour colleague to suicide.
It is time to take action for yourself, for your artist, for your team. See how we can help.