Mental Health Awareness Week 2021: 5 key organisations supporting mental wellbeing in the music industry

Mental Health Awareness Week takes place this year from 10 – 16 May 2021.

With approximately one in four people in the UK experiencing a mental health problem each year, Mental Health Awareness Week aims to get people talking about their mental health and reduce the stigma that can stop people from asking for help.

At the SMIA, we want to shine a light on outstanding organisations and initiatives making a difference in support of musicians and mental health all year round:

• • Music Minds Matter is a free 24/7 helpine run by Help Musicians UK for everyone in the music industry.

 

• • Music Support also runs a helpline for anyone in the music industry struggling with ill mental health and/or addiction. It operates 9:00 am – 9:00 pm on weekdays, and 10:00 am – 8:00 pm on weekends.

 

• • The British Association for Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM) connects performing artists and musicians with free specialist health support.

 

• • Mind are a general resource, who you can contact for urgent help and support. They also have advice on how to support others.

 

• • BAATN hosts an online directory of Counsellors and Psychotherapists of Black, African, Asian and Caribbean Heritage in the UK.

 

• • Music Industry Therapists & Coaches (MITC) have a free guide which is designed specifically for artists and music industry professionals. It includes techniques and online resources for both adults and children. Download the guide from MITC’s website.

 

• • The Young Freelancer’s Guide to Mental Health and the Music Industry. This guide was also produced by MITC’s Tamsin Embleton together with the MU’s Young Members’ Network.

 

• • Thrive: Mental Wellbeing App – the only NHS approved mental health app. Download from your Apple or Android store, and access for free in partnership with Music Support by using the access code MUSIC20

 

• • RSM’s Telephone Support Network – the Royal Society of Musicians (RSM) are connecting musicians with musicians through their Support Network.

 

• • 12 Step Support Group for Musicians – Music Support are hosting weekly online meetings to help musicians who are members of 12 step fellowships connect with each other during the COVID-19 pandemic. Find out more.

 

Find out more about Mental Health Awareness Week.