Mind releases mental health resources for dance music industry

The UK charity has launched its new guides in collaboration with Ninja Tune, Paradigm, Percolate and POLY.

Mental health charity Mind has released a number of free wellbeing and health resources targeted towards those working in electronic music.

Mind launched its new guides yesterday (13 May) during Mental Health Awareness Week, which is running from 10 to 17 May. The charity aims to provide information, advice and support for professionals and contributors working in all corners of the industry, with guides for organisations, managers, employees and freelancers available. Mind is sharing its new resources in partnership with music companies Ninja Tune, Paradigm, Percolate and POLY.

In a statement, the charity explain the motivations behind the new launch. It states: “According to research into the mental health and wellbeing of people in the electronic music industry, carried out in 2019 – before the coronavirus pandemic – musicians are more prone to mental health problems than the general population and may be up to three times more likely to suffer from depression, making this a timely and vital resource.”

The guides will focus on some of the industry-specific mental health and wellbeing challenges associated with electronic music. For example, things like a healthy work/life balance (or lack thereof), outside pressure, poor diet, lack of sleep and access to alcohol and drugs. The guides will also offer specific advice relating to the Covid-19 pandemic. 

We know that working in the music industry can be very rewarding and offers many opportunities,” says Emma Mamo, Head of Workplace Wellbeing at Mind. “However, it comes with a unique set of challenges, including irregular hours, financial insecurity and high pressure – all of which may have an effect on people’s mental health and wellbeing. 

She adds, “Coronavirus restrictions, Brexit, and fluctuating income have only made existing problems in the industry worse, so it’s important that people across the industry can access vital support if and when needed.”

Mind is hosting a panel event on 15 June to coincide with the new project. The event will focus on the impact of work on the mental health of those working in the electronic music industry. A new podcast is also scheduled to launch next month.

Access the new resources here. Listen to Manuka Honey‘s nine-minute meditation designed to help boost your mental wellbeing, and ease the pressure off those day-to-day stressors below.