The Unseen Rhythm: Mental Health in the Music Industry.
If I were to compare navigating the music industry to anything, it'd be like dancing on a tightrope. It's a thrilling, unpredictable ride that demands a delicate balance.
One lesson that's been drummed into me during my own dance with this industry is the critical importance of mental health. Amid the whirlwind of creation, performance (if you’re an artist or performer), and promotion, it's all too easy to get swept up and forget to check in with ourselves. But trust me; mental health isn't a backstage pass you can afford to misplace.
In an industry as dynamic and fast-paced as ours, mental health often gets relegated to the backseat. But it's the engine that fuels our creativity, our passion, and our connection with others. When we're mentally healthy, we're better equipped to ride the rollercoaster of our careers, stay true to our artistic vision, and connect with our audiences in meaningful ways.
So, keep a close eye on your mental health. Take those much-needed breaks. Reach out when the spotlight feels too intense. Celebrate your standing ovations, and allow yourself to learn from the encores you didn't get. Remember, it's okay not to hit every note perfectly.
Our careers in the arts are marathons, not sprints. And just like a marathon, it's not just about the finish line but also the journey. So let's ensure we're taking care of our mental health so we can savour every step.
We often find ourselves in a constant state of motion: creating, performing, promoting, and then doing it all over again. It's a cycle that can be incredibly fulfilling, but also incredibly draining. And in the midst of it all, it's easy to lose sight of the importance of balance.
Balance, in this context, is about more than just managing our time effectively. It's about creating a lifestyle that supports our mental health and allows us to thrive both personally and professionally. It's about recognizing that our worth is not solely defined by our productivity or our success on the charts. It's about understanding that it's okay to take a step back, to rest, to recharge, and to invest in our well-being.
Creating this balance involves setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care. It means making time for activities that nourish us, whether that's going for a walk, practising mindfulness, or simply catching up with a friend. It means listening to our bodies and our minds and giving ourselves permission to take a break when we need it.
But creating balance also involves seeking support when we need it. In an industry that often glamorizes the 'lone wolf' archetype, it's important to remember that it's okay to ask for help. Whether that's reaching out to a trusted friend, seeking professional help, or joining a support group, there's strength in recognizing when we need a helping hand.
Maintaining our mental health in the music industry is a continuous journey. It's about taking small, consistent actions that add up over time. It's about being kind to ourselves, even when we miss a beat or hit a wrong note. And it's about remembering that our mental health is just as important as our physical health – if not more so.
In the words of the renowned producer and DJ, Avicii, "Life's a game made for everyone, and love is the prize." So let's make sure we're playing this game in a way that supports our mental health and allows us to enjoy the prize truly.
For more insights on building better mental health, I recommend checking out this article from HelpGuide.org.
May we keep going, growing and learning 🥷
Blessings,
Milan