The question of artists' mental health and the industry's duty of care has once again been put into the spotlight. Here, Music Support CEO Joe Hastings addresses the key issue and outlines the charity’s strategy in response to increasing mental health challenges within the music industry…
The question of artists' mental health and the industry's duty of care has once again been put into the spotlight.
Here, Music Support CEO Joe Hastings addresses the key issue and outlines the charity’s strategy in response to increasing mental health challenges within the music industry…
Recently we have seen increased issues of mental health and substance use thrust into the spotlight, from artists who have publicly taken time off to prioritise their wellbeing, to the tragic death of Liam Payne dominating headlines and industry concerns for a period of time. And then, for many, the conversation moved back…
When challenges around substance use, addiction and mental health make headlines, we often see an outpouring of sentiment, discussions about support systems, and calls for change in the music industry. But, too often, these conversations fade as quickly as they emerge, leaving fundamental issues unaddressed until the next crisis demands our attention.
As we begin 2025, it's time to make mental health and wellbeing support as fundamental to our industry as we do every other aspect of artist, staff and company development. This isn't just a moral imperative – it's a business necessity. Research shows the UK music industry loses at least £22 million annually to mental ill-health. Beyond that, we're losing talented individuals who could be thriving if given the right support at the right time.
Then consider the younger generations entering the industry, who are increasingly vocal about prioritising their mental health and seeking employers who demonstrate a genuine commitment to wellbeing. This shift in workplace culture presents an opportunity for the music industry to become a standard-bearer for how creative sectors can support their people.
Music Support has been helping industry peers who have experienced challenges around substance use, addiction and/or mental health, alongside providing support for their family and friends and the wider music industry for eight years. We offer a person-centred safe space to connect and receive specialist help, confidentially and without judgement.
In 2024, we saw a 51% increase in calls to our helpline. So, either the problem is getting worse or more people are finding the courage to seek help. Either way, the need for more ongoing support is undeniable.
The challenge is particularly complex in an industry where 72% of professionals work freelance. Traditional workplace wellbeing initiatives, designed for conventional employer-employee relationships, often miss this crucial segment of our workforce. We need solutions that work for everyone, regardless of their employment status.
Meaningful change requires more than good intentions. It demands consistent, practical action across all areas of our industry. Through our work with organisations of all sizes, we've identified several key practices that make a real difference:
We need to focus on prevention rather than just crisis response. This means implementing systems for regular check-ins, creating safe spaces for open dialogue, and providing access to support services before issues become critical. Our peer support networks, which we're expanding across the UK, have proven invaluable in creating these cultures.
We’ve also recognised that career transitions and periods of significant change can be pivotal moments that profoundly impact mental health. These transitions, whether stepping into a new role, navigating the end of a project, or redefining one’s path in the industry can bring uncertainty and strain. By building robust support frameworks around these critical junctures, we aim to build on peers’ resilience and ensure that careers in music are not only sustainable but can thrive amidst change.
It’s also important to ensure that support systems are accessible to everyone in our industry, from artists and songwriters to technical crews and administrative staff. The challenges might vary, but the need for support doesn't discriminate by role.
We need to focus on prevention rather than just crisis response
Joe Hastings
Good news: we are seeing encouraging signs of progress. More organisations than ever are engaging with our mental health support services and looking to make wellbeing a central part of their strategy. There are some great examples of labels, major and indie, developing comprehensive wellbeing programmes, while I can point to a number of independent venues that have created safe spaces for staff and artists alike.
Furthermore, in 2024 we created a new role within our team with an ambitious connections and community strategy, significantly growing our peer support initiatives with an aim of empowering individuals to prioritise mental health and develop meaningful connections in high-pressure environments.
At the heart of this initiative is the understanding that connection is vital. Peers sharing their experiences and supporting one another creates a powerful ripple effect. It not only reduces the isolation often felt in the industry but also strengthens individuals’ ability to navigate challenges, sustain their wellbeing, and thrive personally and professionally.
Our Manchester support group launched in November last year alongside music and mental health social enterprise Headstock, funded by AO Arena. This initiative has already begun to cultivate a safe, open, and supportive community. These opportunities to connect empower music professionals to share their journeys, build resilience, and inspire each other to get and stay well.
This is just the beginning. By building these healthy community networks across the industry, we aim to reduce stigma, create safe spaces, and offer lasting, transformative support. Together, we’re not just addressing challenges—we’re creating a future where every individual in music has the connections they need to truly thrive.
So there is momentum, but it needs to be maintained and expanded. The music industry fuels culture and creativity, but those working within it often face unique and overwhelming challenges. To ensure this vital work continues, we need the industry's support now more than ever.
By supporting Music Support through donations or partnerships, you’re investing in the wellbeing of the individuals who create the music we all cherish. Your contribution helps deliver life-changing services—from preventative workshops that sustain wellbeing to helplines, counselling, and psychotherapeutic care—making a real difference when it’s needed most.
We need the industry to join us in building a healthier, more resilient music business. Together, we can safeguard the people behind the music - because without them, there is no music.
