Calls for more support as study finds musicians in England and US have among highest rates of suicideMusicians have one of the highest suicide rates in the world because the music business contains so many difficulties such as intense touring, performance anxiety and low earnings, researchers have suggested.The finding that unusually large numbers of musicians take their own lives show that “the music industry is a profoundly dangerous place”, according to a co-author of the study.In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie. In the US, you can call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org. Continue reading...
A recent study highlights alarmingly high suicide rates among musicians in the UK and the US, identifying the music industry as a hazardous work environment. Factors contributing to these rates include intense touring schedules, performance anxiety, financial instability, and prevalent mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Researchers emphasize the need for the industry to implement significant changes, advocating for a "zero suicide framework" and enhanced support systems. While initiatives like Music Minds Matter and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provide crucial resources, freelance musicians often face barriers in accessing mental health support. Although some companies have introduced mental health programs, the study underscores the necessity for broader industry reforms to address these challenges effectively.
