Third of UK musicians experiencing poor mental wellbeing

Research conducted by the Musicians’ Union (MU) and Help Musicians has today revealed that almost a third (30%) of UK musicians are experiencing poor mental wellbeing. The report, released as part of the findings of the first ever UK Musicians’ Census, warn that four in ten musicians with very negative mental wellbeing are likely to leave their career in music within five years.

Nearly 6,000 musicians have been surveyed for the census, which found that lower earners (earning less than £7,000 a year from music) were twice as likely to report low mental wellbeing compared to those earning £55,000. LGBTQ+ and disabled musicians reported higher levels of negative mental wellbeing (43% and 49% respectively) and over 20% of musicians reporting poor mental wellbeing also said they have experienced discrimination.

MU general secretary Naomi Pohl said: ‘At the same time as providing support for those who need it, as an industry we need to tackle the root causes of poor mental wellbeing. The Musicians’ Census has clearly identified contributing factors such as low pay, career barriers and witnessing or experiencing discrimination. It is particularly concerning that LGBTQ+ and disabled musicians experience some of the highest rates of low mental wellbeing and the industry needs to work harder and faster to remove the barriers these communities of musicians face. These are all issues that are within the music industry’s power to change. Musicians are the lifeblood of the music industry and there’s a clear link between poor mental wellbeing and leaving the industry. Having a mentally healthy workforce must be a priority for us all.’

Half of musicians reporting low mental health said they are in debt (47%) and nearly a quarter (23%) of musicians who participated in the survey reported they do not earn enough to support themselves or their families. Amongst those with poor mental health the figure rises to 37%. Musicians in England were least likely to report low mental wellbeing (30%) compared to respondents in other nations: Wales (37%), Northern Ireland (34%) and Scotland (33%)

The census’ discovery that 41% of music students surveyed reported negative mental wellbeing highlights the need for dedicated support for early-career musicians.

Help Musicians is working to support musicians with low mental wellbeing among musicians through its sister charity Music Minds Matter, which provides support including a 24/7 support line for those struggling (0808 802 8008). Sarah Woods, chief executive of both Help Musicians and Music Minds Matter said: ’Through Help Musicians’ sister charity Music Minds Matter we see firsthand the impact that low mental wellbeing can have on the lives and careers of UK musicians and those who work around them. Insights from the Musicians’ Census show the need to build positive mental wellbeing for all who work in music but especially with the future generation so we can prevent crises before they happen… We would encourage everyone working in music to digest this report and work together so we can continue building an industry with positive mental health for all.’