A recent report by Record Union asked 1,500 independent music makers about their mental health and wellbeing, and the results were quite shocking!
According to The 73 Percent Report, seven out of ten independent music makers said that they have experienced negative emotions such as stress, anxiety and/or depression in relation to their music creation. Out of those, as many as one out of three said that they have experienced panic attacks.
Part of this problem seems to lie within the industry itself. Only one in five said that they think the music industry is working to create a sustainable climate with healthy artists. When asked if the industry could do more to create a sustainable music climate with healthy artists, one suggestion was to “Quit glamorising drugs and this big party lifestyle for new artists, they go into it all too deep and come out fucked.”
Another respondent suggested that leaders, “Stop entertaining tragic and destructive lifestyle choices from artists.”
The report also indicates that there is still a stigma around mental illness within the music industry and that many musicians are suffering from loneliness and destructive behaviour.
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, there are resources to help you. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.
You can call Lifeline Australia directly at 13 11 14
