skip to main content

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.

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

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

Cardboard box with mics in and around to capture organic sound for the shoe box scene.

Wider Than The Sky: Janie Price on First Time Scriptwriting and Composing for Short Film

Musician Janie Price aka Bird has just released her first short film soundtrack ‘Wider Than The Sky’, she’s also been a member of the MU for 24 years. In this guest blog, she shares her journey and advice for other members intrigued by the world of score design and DIY projects.

Published: 15 July 2024

Read more about Wider Than The Sky: Janie Price on First Time Scriptwriting and Composing for Short Film
Black and white image of Gil sat at a piano in his younger years.

Tribute to Gil Martin

Gilbert Alexander Martin was a successful and highly accomplished pianist, as well as a lifelong member and supporter of the Musician's Union. He passed away on 29 May 2024. This tribute has been provided by Gil’s daughters, Gillian and Susan.

Published: 11 July 2024

Read more about Tribute to Gil Martin
Sir Kier Starmer Labour leader giving his first speech after winning the general election and becoming prime minister on 5 July.

MU Welcomes New Labour Government and Meets New MPs

Having been so heavily involved in forming Labour policy and the manifesto, we look forward to working with the new Government to implement meaningful change for the country and for musicians.

Published: 11 July 2024

Read more about MU Welcomes New Labour Government and Meets New MPs