A recent study conducted in the Canadian music industry sheds light on mental health issues prevalent among its professionals. The study, titled “Soundcheck: Mental Health in the Canadian Music Industry,” surveyed over 1,250 industry individuals, including artists, crew members, managers, venue operators, educators, media professionals, festival staff, and executives. The findings revealed alarming statistics: 94% of participants acknowledged the prevalence of mental health issues in the industry, with 86% personally facing challenges and 95% witnessing challenges in others.
Moreover, the study highlighted that 53% of respondents have felt that life was not worth living, 42% have wished for death, and 43% have contemplated taking their own lives. Catherine Harrison, the lead researcher of the study and president of Revelios, emphasized that these issues indicate systemic problems within the industry that need to be addressed urgently.
In recent years, more musicians have been open about taking breaks for mental health reasons. Acts like Justin Bieber, Shawn Mendes, Orville Peck, and Demi Lovato have postponed or canceled tours to prioritize their well-being. However, not all industry professionals have the luxury to take such breaks.
The study has received support from various industry stakeholders, including Alex Johnson, executive director of Unison Fund, who found the results “very validating.” Johnson emphasized the need for systemic support, such as paid sick leave and benefits, for aging artists. She highlighted the importance of increased arts funding to foster a healthy industry and community.
The research provides a crucial baseline for implementing necessary support systems in the music industry, aiming to address the mental health challenges faced by its workforce. The study’s insights are expected to pave the way for a more supportive and sustainable future for music professionals in Canada.