Music has long been celebrated for its touching impact on human emotions and healing effects on mental well-being. However, we often overlook the mental health of those who create this art: musicians. Recent peer-reviewed research and statistics highlight the effects of the music industry on mental health challenges faced by musicians.
Numerous studies have underscored the prevalence of mental health issues among musicians. According to a study published in the journal Psychology of Music, musicians are three times more likely to experience anxiety and depression compared to the general population. Another survey by the University of Westminster and MusicTank in 2016 found that 71% of musicians have experienced panic attacks or high levels of anxiety, and 68.5% have experienced depression.
For comparison, up to 11% of the population of the US have experienced a panic attack in their life and an estimated 31.1% of US adults experience any anxiety disorder in their life. The most recent study in 2019 determined that at least 73% of musicians experience mental health challenges, with this figure climbing to 80% when considering the 18-25 age range. So what accounts for this staggering difference between the general population and musicians?
Understanding the Problem
The heightened mental health risks among musicians can be attributed to several interrelated factors. Financial insecurity is a major issue. Many musicians face unstable income, leading to constant financial stress. A study by the Musicians’ Union in the UK found that 56% of musicians earn less than £20,000 ($25,402) a year, making it difficult to sustain a living solely through music. Personal stories often reflect this struggle; for instance, a violinist might recount juggling multiple teaching jobs and late-night gigs, yet still struggling to make ends meet.
The environment within the music industry also contributes to mental health issues. The industry is highly competitive, with immense pressure to succeed. This pressure often leads to performance anxiety and fear of failure. Musicians frequently face critical evaluations from peers, audiences, and industry professionals, contributing to a constant state of stress and self-doubt. Additionally, the prevalence of harassment and discrimination can create a hostile environment, further worsening mental health challenges. For example, female musicians and musicians of color often report experiencing sexism and racism, adding another layer of stress to their professional lives.
Substance abuse is also prevalent in the music industry. The culture of substance use can lead to dependency issues, further impacting mental health. Research indicates that musicians are more likely to engage in substance abuse as a coping mechanism for stress and performance anxiety. A well-known example is the late Amy Winehouse, whose struggles with substance abuse and mental health were highly publicized and ultimately tragic.
Next Steps
These factors, combined with the public scrutiny that musicians often face, create a storm of stressors that can severely impact mental health. The pressure to maintain a public persona while dealing with personal struggles can be overwhelming. This is why it is crucial for musicians to find a supportive community and connect with networks or organizations that advocate for change. These support systems often provide a safe space for musicians to share their experiences, seek advice, and find solace in knowing they are not alone. Organizations like Music Support in the UK and Backline in the US are dedicated to offering mental health resources, support networks, and advocacy for musicians, aiming to foster a more understanding and supportive industry environment.
Addressing this multifaceted issue, deeply ingrained in the structure and culture of the music industry, requires a comprehensive approach that includes financial support, mental health resources, a supportive community, and a cultural shift within the industry. Organizations like Mental Symphony play a crucial role in this mission, offering resources, support, and a platform for musicians to address their mental health struggles. Together, we can ensure that the individuals who bring so much joy and meaning to our lives through their music also experience joy and meaning in their own.
Citations
Cleveland Clinic. (2023, February 12). Panic attacks & panic disorder. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4451-panic-attack-panic-disorder
Gross, S. A., & Musgrave, G. (2017). Can music make you sick? A study into the incidence of musicians’ mental health. Part 2: Qualitative study and recommendations. MusicTank, University of Westminster.
Help Musicians UK. (2020). Mental health survey. Retrieved from https://www.helpmusicians.org.uk/
Musicians' Union. (2018). The working musician report. Retrieved from https://www.musiciansunion.org.uk/
Musicians' Union. (2022, September 9). Musicians and mental illness: What is being done to help. Retrieved from https://musiciansunion.org.uk/career-development/career-guides/musicians-wellbeing-guidance-pack/musicians-and-mental-illness-what-is-being-done-to-help
Perkins, R., & Fancourt, D. (2018). The perceived impact of music making on wellbeing among professional and amateur musicians. Psychology of Music, 46(4), 431-447.
Schatz, L. (2019, May 8). 73% of musicians report suffering from mental illness. Consequence. Retrieved from https://consequence.net/2019/05/73-percent-musicians-mental-health-illness-depression-report/
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