Nine out of 10 musicians' mental health has deteriorated during lockdown

Charity Help Musicians have today released a report that outlines the extent of the mental health crisis in musicians. 

From a study of over 700 musicians in the UK, 87% say that their mental health has deteriorated since the start of the pandemic, with over half also acknowledging the impact of Brexit on the music industry.

Financial concerns are a key cause: 96% are worried about their financial situation, with 70% not confident they can cope over the next six months. Nearly a third think it will be 2022 before income levels return to normal.

Over half of respondents are currently relying on universal credit and a third are relying on loans or handouts from friends of family.

A third (36%) of respondents say that they are experiencing relationship issues, and 41% citing concerns around losing their home. 

The research also shows that most musicians are not getting the support they need, with 81% of those with mental health problems saying that they have not yet received a clinical mental health diagnosis.

During 2020, Help Musicians saw a 40% increase in demand and bolstered its mental health service. Support includes a phone line staffed by BACP accredited counsellors, and a debt service offering advice to those with money issues. 

The findings have led Help Musicians' chief executive James Ainscough to call the situation a 'hidden crisis amongst musicians'.

He continued: 'We can’t sugar coat these findings ... Whilst there may be light at the end of the tunnel with a roadmap out of lockdown revealed, there is still substantial uncertainty around how quickly the music industry can recover, plus the catastrophic impact of the Brexit deal on musicians’ ability to tour. After a year of hardship, the ongoing uncertainty for musicians is taking a huge toll on mental health.'

Help Musicians is asking those who are in a position to donate to give whatever they can through their website.

If you are a musician in need of emotional or financial support, please call Music Minds Matter now on 0808 802 8008.

For Classical Music's round-up of mental health support for musicians affected by Covid-19, click here.