26 Jul A Guide to a Musician’s Mental Health
Original Article by Function Central: https://www.functioncentral.co.uk/mental-health/
Poor mental health is a challenging topic to discuss in an industry as big as music, yet it plagues even some of the biggest names. While Fanflex’s job is to help small artists find venues nationwide, the health of our clients remains a priority when working alongside them. As such, we feel it’s important to spend this week’s Tuesday Tip discussing such a topic, which will hopefully be important information for aspiring artists such as yourself.
While it may seem like a great idea to move full steam ahead with your music career, don’t forget to maintain good mental health. It’s tough being a musician starting, and the pressures of the grind will close more and more onto you. Your mental health remains a priority as band practice and performing, so you can keep working hard and having a good time.
1. The Musician’s Mental Health
A study by Music Minds Matter found that artists and musicians are seven times more likely to experience poor mental health. When it comes to what can impact a musician’s mental health, there are four primary reasons for the drop:
- Poor working conditions
- Lack of recognition
- Physical Issues
- Gender Discrimination
Also, artists often see their work as extensions of themselves, so they employ many self-criticisms on themselves. As such, they may try to appear in control and have a handle on everything, even if the reality is the stark contrast.
Many employments do not have a solid foundation in mental health advocacy, instead opting to just deal with it as it happens. Mental health must no longer be stigmatized and be approached with better preparedness.
For more statistics and in-depth information about mental health, check out the section from the original article here: https://www.functioncentral.co.uk/mental-health/an-introduction-to-mental-health.html
2. Healthy Ways to Maintain Mental Health
There are several, basic ways to maintain mental health, including:
- Eating a proper diet
- Sleeping for 6-9 hours
- Preforming consistent exercise
- Meditating often
But when it comes to a musician, there’s more to just eating properly and sleeping well. An artist can practice mindfulness when playing their instrument, from practice to even during the show. It’s also important to spend time with friends and family, so be sure to reach out, even abroad.
Most importantly, take some time for yourself. Set time aside for you to do what you like, as relaxation is necessary for keeping the course.
For in-depth tips about improving a musician’s mental health, check out the section from the original article here: https://www.functioncentral.co.uk/mental-health/healthy-practices-for-mental-wellbeing.html
3. Additional Support
Sometimes, issues go beyond simple lifestyle changes, and it’s important to know who to contact when you feel you need it. Therapy is a common form of intervention that has helped many battle their demons in the past, which includes:
- Behavioural activation
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
- Counselling
- Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR)
- Guided self help
- Interpersonal therapy
- Mindfulness-based cognitive behavioural therapy
Additionally, even speaking to a friend or family member about what’s been going on in your mind can go a long way. There’s nobody you can be more comfortable with than the ones you love.
However, if you truly feel like your life is at risk, these two numbers are especially important to remember:
- Dial 988, which connects to The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
- Dial 911 and request an ambulance.
For further information about additional support, as well as a list of foundations and groups based in the UK that can assist, check out the section from the original article here: https://www.functioncentral.co.uk/mental-health/getting-additional-support.html
While we at Fanflex care about putting you on a stage and letting you rock out to your heart’s content, we especially care about your health. We recommend the following two resources as excellent places for musicians to seek help.
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