New mental health helpline aims to aid musicians in need
Following the deaths of several high profile musicians in the recent years, mental health issues within the music industry have been more openly discussed. To take things a step further, the Music Minds Matter campaign was created.
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According to BBC’s Newsbeat, the campaign was launched by Help Musicians UK in the aftermath of Chester Bennington’s death.
The helpline is intended to “offer advice for not only musicians but those working in areas like management, tour crews and record labels” who may also be struggling with mental health in their daily lives.
Music Minds Matter offer assistance 24/7 and are free of charge. Those looking for help may call 0808 802-8008, and receive emotional support and advice, access to counseling, therapy, advice on debt, benefits and legal issues—and even access to grants.
Help Musicians is the largest provider of health and welfare support for the music industry in the UK. In 2016, the organization conducted a survey of more than 2,200 musicians from a variety of genres and revealed that “the music community may be up to three times more likely to experience depression compared to the general public.”
The Music Minds Matter Expansion
Help Musicians is now expanding their reach across Europe and the US. This expansion includes a partnership with Give an Hour, the US nonprofit organization behind the ‘320 Changes Direction‘ campaign in collaboration with Talinda Bennington.
According to a fundraiser for the Music Minds Matter expansion, a portion of the proceeds from this partnership will be used “to change the culture around mental health so that not just those in the music industry, but their fans and all of those in need are more easily able to seek and receive the help that they deserve.” You can donate to the cause here.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental illness, there is help to be found. Please consider these online resources and talk to your regular doctor about your symptoms:
SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
ImAlive – Online Crisis Network
The Anxiety And Depression Association Of America
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Suicide Prevention Initiatives
The Jed Foundation
