GFTU BGCM Minutes 2017

MOTION 9 – PERFORMERS AND MENTAL HEALTH

SIS ANDI HOPGOOD (Musicians Union) moved the following motion:

1

A 2014 survey by Help Musicians UK revealed the high levels of mental

health problems within the musician community. Of those surveyed, 67% had,

on occasion, suffered from depression or other psychological problems, 75%

had experienced performance anxiety and 62% had experienced relationship

difficulties.

2

There has recently been an increased awareness of mental health

within the creative industries and this is something that the entertainment

unions’ welcome, since the unusual nature of a performer’s working life can

make them more vulnerable to certain mental health issues. Musicians, actors

and other performers regularly face antisocial hours, loneliness, worries about

money and strain placed on relationships due to touring, all of which can be

detrimental to their mental health. This combined with the pressure of working

in the creative industries can lead to performers developing issues with alcohol

and drug abuse as a coping mechanism. Cases such as the death of Amy

Winehouse have highlighted that the music industry and the creative industries

in general need to do more to support performers.

3

The BGCM supports all efforts to promote better mental health within

the creative industries, and highlights the work of the British Association for

Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM) in treating both physical and mental health

issues in performers and Help Musicians UK for supporting this essential work.

She said: This motion deals with something we should all be aware of. I am

sure you have all heard the one in four statistic. It seems mental health issues

are even more prevalent in performers. It is not about their creative

temperament, that is a big myth, and I can tell you there is nothing creative

about being clinically depressed. The issues are in the lifestyle we have to

lead as musicians. I shall list a few things. Working evenings and weekends

and really as freelancers whenever you can work. This has a real impact on

not just the social life, but also puts a strain on relationships with friends, family

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