Photo by Soundtrap on Unsplash
With Mental Health Awareness Week (12–18 May 2025) just around the corner, it's time to shine a light on something we don't talk about nearly enough in the music world – our mental wellbeing. This year's theme is Community, and honestly, we couldn't think of a more perfect fit for what so many of us in the industry need right now.
The Tough Reality Behind the Music
Let's be real – making music is what we love, but it comes with serious challenges:
- Studio Isolation: Those long hours alone tweaking tracks can leave you feeling cut off from the world.
- Money Worries: The feast-or-famine nature of music income is a constant source of stress for most of us. Studies have shown this financial instability is actually one of the biggest mental health triggers for independent musicians.
- Constant Pressure: The relentless expectation to create hits, stay relevant, and keep up with trends doesn't let up.
- Brutal Numbers: The stats are eye-opening – around 70% of musicians experience anxiety and depression, roughly three times higher than the general population. And the problem starts early, with music students showing higher rates of mental health issues than other students.
What's even more concerning? While half of musicians with mental health issues self-medicate (often with alcohol and drugs), fewer than 40% actually seek professional help. We need to change that.
Building Our Music Community
In the spirit of this year's theme, here's how we can strengthen our community connections:
- Check In Regularly: A simple "how are you really doing?" text to a fellow producer can make all the difference.
- Collaboration Over Competition: Working together on projects doesn't just spark creativity – it fights isolation and builds meaningful connections.
- Share Your Struggles: When we talk openly about our challenges, we help break down the stigma that keeps too many suffering in silence.
Taking Action for Your Wellbeing
This year's broader Mental Health Awareness Month is promoting the idea to "Turn Awareness Into Action" – so here are some practical steps you can actually use:
- Set Boundaries: Studio time is important, but so is downtime. Create a schedule that includes breaks and stick to it.
- Move Your Body: Nothing clears a creative block like physical movement – even a quick walk can reset your brain.
- Get Honest Feedback: Find trusted ears who'll give you constructive criticism without crushing your spirit.
- Control Your Social Media: Set specific times to check platforms and avoid the comparison trap during creative sessions.
- Celebrate Small Victories: Finished that drum pattern? Mixed that vocal just right? Recognize these wins – they matter.
Where to Find Support
These organizations offer real help specifically for music industry folks:
- Music Minds Matter: Free 24/7 helpline for anyone in the UK music community. It doesn't have to be a crisis to call, and you'll speak to trained counselors who understand the unique pressures of the industry. Call 0808 802 8008 or visit musicmindsmatter.org.uk.
- Music Support: Specializes in mental health and addiction issues within the music industry. Visit musicsupport.org for resources and support.
- Help Musicians: Provides a range of services from financial assistance to health support. Find them at helpmusicians.org.uk.
The Bottom Line
You're not alone in this – not even close. The music community is stronger when we look out for each other, and reaching out for support isn't weakness – it's one of the smartest career moves you can make.
Let's use Mental Health Awareness Week to start more honest conversations and build the kind of supportive community we all need to thrive, not just survive, in this industry we love.
What are your experiences with mental health in music production? Drop a comment below or reach out – we're all ears.