Artists have long struggled with mental health and substance abuse issues in the fast-paced, high-
pressure world of the music industry. From legends like Kurt Cobain and Amy Winehouse to recent
tragedies like Mac Miller and Chester Bennington, the industry has seen an unfortunate number of
artists struggle with these challenges but the tide is turning, as now the music world is taking
unprecedented steps to address this the problem at hand.
A recent survey from the Music Industry Research Association revealed some startling statistics.
Nearly 50 percent of the musicians reported symptoms of depression, nearly twice the rate of the
general adult population. Even more alarmingly, nearly 12 percent reported having suicidal thoughts,
nearly four times the average. The pressure of constant travel and the ever-increasing demands of
the industry severely damaged the psychological well-being of the artists.
The precarious gig economy, financial instability, and constant presence of drugs and alcohol in the
music industry contribute to the stress artists face when Drs. Regular and intense routines make it
difficult for artists to maintain good habits and relationships, creating a perfect storm for mental
illness, explains Chayam Newman.
The industry is not only recognizing the problem but also doing something about it. Organizations like
Backline connect musicians, professionals, and anyone involved in the music world with mental
health resources. Live Nation introduced Tour Support, providing 24/7 access to touring performers,
crew, and vendors. These programs aim to break the stigma around mental health within the
profession and provide much-needed support.
Artists are leading the charge in exploiting the stigma of mental health. Sully Erna, Billy Elish, and
Widespread Panic are among those who have spoken openly about their struggles with mental health
and have created meetings and foundations to help others. The music world is also hosting events
such as 320 Fest, Sound Mind, and Recovery Fest dedicated to raising awareness about mental
health and addiction.
Despite these positive steps, the music industry has a long way to go. Dr. Chayam Newman is
launching TourHealth.org, a landmark study on mental health in the tourism industry to collect data
and develop effective interventions. The hope is that the project will make comprehensive changes to
support the well-being of the cast and crew.
Actor, Anders Osborne, who has had a profound experience with addiction and mental illness, makes
it through his nonprofit, Send Me a Friend, which provides sober partners offering tours that provide a
safe space for artists and help them focus on their practice as a client Knowing this.
The music industry is finally acknowledging the mental illness of its artists and taking the necessary
steps to ensure the early deaths of young lives become a thing of the past. An increasing number of
businesses and artists are leading the way, hoping
