73% of independent musicians suffer from mental illness, study finds
Fear of failure, loneliness and financial instability were major contributors...
73% of independent musicians suffer from mental illness, a new study by distribution company Record Union has found.
The online survey was conducted between 21st March and 2nd April and involved close to 1,500 artists, with 1/3 admitting they suffered panic attacks. Other issues included negative pressure, negative stress, anxiety and depression.
Entitled 'The 73 Percent Report', the results show that fear of failure, loneliness and financial instability were major contributing factors. Record Union has committed to donate $30,000 to projects that aim to tackle or prevent mental illness amongst musicians. The fund is currently open for applications.
The subject has been a serious talking point for a number of years, with high profile deaths like Avicii and The Prodigy's Keith Flint providing heartbreaking examples of stars who have lost their lives to the worst outcomes of mental health problems. Ben Pearce, dubstep originator Benga and electronic guru Fever Ray have all spoken out about their own experiences, as has James Blake.
Artists are not the only ones suffering. Ticketing website Skiddle found that 82% of music industry workers were subjected to 'intense and unmanageable stress' in its own study last year. Those involved in music in the UK and struggling to cope can contact Help Musicians UK, while people experiencing emotional distress of any kind can call The Samaritans free 24-hours a day on 116 123.
