British Organizations to Provide Mental Health Assistance for Early Career Musicians

The Musicians' Union (MU), Help Musicians, British Association for Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM), and YCAT have launched the initiative to raise awareness about the mental health struggles faced by young professionals.

The month-long campaign, running now until April 29, will see a range of free sessions that facilitate greater self-efficacy in dealing with mental health issues. There is an emphasis on finding help early on before they develop into larger problems.

The sessions include guided meditation training with Alison Gordon of Meditation Changes Lives, as well as a conscious breathing workshop with BAPAM GP Dr. Pippa Wheble, and 1-2-1 coaching sessions with Marion Friend MBE.

"Early career musicians can often feel like their only sources of mental health advice are their tutors, or other musicians," said Dr. Kate Blackstone, YCAT's Project Manager.

"That’s why we are offering mental health support from qualified and experienced practitioners. I really hope that this can be the beginning of musicians’ journeys into maintaining their mental health in a manageable and positive way."

“The early part of a musician’s career can be an exciting time, but it can also present significant challenges," added Joe Hastings, the Head of Music Minds Matter at Help Musicians.

"Through the insights that we have gathered via our Music Minds Matter service, we understand the importance of prioritising self-care to build and maintain emotional wellbeing and to promote happy and healthy careers. We are really excited to be working with YCAT, BAPAM and the Musicians’ Union on this important campaign.”

You can read more about the month, here.