The MU is delighted to mark Musicians’ Mental Health Month for a fifth consecutive year. Photo: Shutterstock.
This April, the Young Classical Artists Trust (YCAT) is launching the fifth year of its annual Musicians’ Mental Health Month, working in partnership with the MU, the British Association for Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM), Tonic Music, and for the first time the Royal Society of Musicians (RSM).
This year’s theme is imposter syndrome: the feeling of self-doubt and a fear of being “found out”, even when there is clear evidence of your achievements. It is something many musicians experience, often silently.
Free support and resources for musicians
As part of this year’s campaign, YCAT is offering a range of free support for musicians, including:
There will also be curated resources and guidance from all participating partners, including this MU guide explaining what imposter syndrome is and practical steps musicians can take to address it.
YCAT will also host an insightful guest blog and Q&A on the subject from coaches Marion Friend MBE and Richard Collins, produced in partnership with the MU.
Together, these opportunities aim to create space for reflection, support and practical next steps — whether musicians are currently struggling with imposter syndrome or simply looking to better understand their own experiences.
Celebrating five years of Musicians' Mental Health Month
Dr Kate Blackstone, Project Manager at Young Classical Artists Trust, says:
"Over the last five years of our Musicians' Mental Health Month, I've seen musicians become more and more open about discussing the challenges of a career in the industry. However, research continues to suggest that students and early career musicians are unsure of where to turn for support, which is why we're proud to be able to offer one-to-one sessions, free of charge, alongside signposting to expert partners."
Musicians’ Mental Health Month will run throughout April, with content, resources and opportunities shared across YCAT’s website and social channels.