Help Musicians UK has officially launched its new mental health service, Music Minds Matter.
Help Musicians is the the largest independent music charity and provider of health and welfare support for the British music industry, with a bespoke Northern Irish wing launched last year. It identified a ‘mental health crisis’ in the industry and initiated a Mental Health Fund, with an investment starting at £100,000.
This investment was to fund a 24/7 mental health helpline and service that would combine listening, advice and signposting with clinical, medical, therapeutic and welfare support for those who need it. The helpline went live this week.
A research study carried out in May 2016, Can Music Make You Sick?, found that people in the industry are three times more likely to suffer from anxiety, depression and other related problems.
The charity called on support from the industry and philanthropists, asking them to match the initial investment pound for pound, thereby allowing the service to run beyond 2018. It has gained the support of many high profile musicians including Rou Reynolds (Enter Shikari), Adam Ficek (Babyshambles) and Matthew Leone (Madina Lake).
Help Musicians remains committed to campaigning, educating, and encouraging conversations about mental and emotional wellbeing.
For more information on Music Minds Matter check out the website. For support or to talk to someone call 0808 802 8008 free of charge, 24/7.
