The MU is closed for the winter break, and will reopen at 10am on Thursday, 2nd January 2025.

Mental Health: Support for Musicians

There is a lot going on in the world right now. So we wanted to take a minute to talk about the mental health support that is out there for musicians, wherever you are and wherever you work.

Published: 16 March 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM

Photograph of a green forest with the setting sun shining through the branches — Workplace discrimination because of mental health is against the law. Photo credit: Shutterstock

Music Minds Matter is a free 24/7 helpine run by Help Musicians UK for everyone in the music industry. Call them on 0808 802 8008 or visit their website.

Music Support also runs a helpline for anyone in the music industry struggling with ill mental health and/or addiction. It operates 9:00 am - 9:00 pm on weekdays, and 10:00 am - 8:00 pm on weekends. Call them on 0800 030 6789 or find out more on their website.

The British Association for Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM) connects performing artists and musicians with free specialist health support. You can get in touch by phone, email or at one of their regular clinics in London, Birmingham, Glasgow, Leeds, Cardiff, Liverpool & Belfast. Check out their website for details.

You can also contact Mind for urgent help and support. Plus advice on how to support others. Visit their website.

Mental health at work is a trade union issue

Workplace discrimination because of mental health is against the law. And support for ill mental health at work can be considered a reasonable adjustment.

Find out more in our Disability Rights Toolkit.

MU members can get in touch anytime for advice & assistance.

Young Freelancers Guide to Mental Health and the Music Industry

The Young Freelancer’s Guide to Mental Health and the Music Industry looks at common challenges facing freelance musicians, strategies for meeting them, and how to access support.

Written by mental health experts, it covers:

Self care
Burn out
Support networks
Cultivating resilience
Anxiety and panic attacks
Depression

The latest advice for musicians on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

We’re keeping our coronavirus advice updated as new information comes in.

For urgent advice on contracts, cancellations, payments or your right, please contact your MU Regional Office.

See all news

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes accident cover, health schemes, travel insurance and car insurance add-ons through the Musicians’ Union.

Explore our member services

Get public liability insurance for musicians
Access expert legal support
Be represented in your profession
Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Continue reading

Musician Steve Luck in a white t-shirt and black blazer, standing next a graffitied wall on a cobbled road.

Beyond The Music: Essential Skills and Qualities for a Sustainable Music Career

MU Music Writers Committee member and award-winning composer Steve Luck reflects on his journey and shares why adaptability and continuous learning are key to building a long-term music career.

Published: 19 December 2024

A panel discussion on stage with a crowd of audience members sitting down.

Show One to Showcase: MU Panel and Mixer in Belfast

In December 2024, the MU hosted a panel and mixer event in Belfast to help musicians learn how to get ready for showcases and festivals. The event also celebrated the newly-appointed MU Regional Officer for Northern Ireland, Charlene Hergarty.

Published: 19 December 2024

Young man, wearing glasses, at home smiling while taking notes and looking at a laptop.

CULT Cymru Announce Coaching and Mentoring Programme for MU Members in Wales

The Programme, which is free for Union members in Wales, aims to provide the skills and knowledge required to enable those in the creative sector to support their co-workers through coaching and mentoring practices. Applications close once places are filled.

Published: 18 December 2024

Close up of the exterior of the Birmingham Royal Ballet building with signage.

MU Deeply Saddened to Learn that Caroline Miller of Birmingham Royal Ballet has Passed Away

Caroline Miller OBE, CEO of Birmingham Royal Ballet, passed away on Sunday 15 December. The MU is deeply saddened to hear of the news, and our thoughts go to Caroline’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

Published: 17 December 2024

A scientist computing, analysing and visualising complex data set on computer.

Musicians’ Union Cautious on Government AI Consultation

The MU was invited to respond to a government consultation on a proposed exception to UK copyright law which will allow AI developers to use creative works to train their systems without breaching copyright.