This year the theme of the World Mental Health Day is suicide and suicide prevention.

Every year close to 800,000 people globally take their own life and there are many more people who attempt suicide. Death by suicide is listed in the top 20 causes of loss of life globally for people of all ages.

World Mental Health Day is an opportunity for all of us to raise awareness of mental health issues and advocate against social stigma.

The music industry has always been a volatile environment triggering vulnerabilities that can lead to mental health challenges and emotional breakdowns.

Last year, we created a unique partnership with Help Musicians UK to provide dedicated mental health support to members through Music Minds Matter – a free and confidential 24/7 mental health support line and service for the music industry.

PRS members can access counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy as well as emotional support or just a listening ear.

From September 2018 to April 2019, there were 18 composers and 51 songwriters who contacted the MMM service of which 7 composers and 21 songwriters went on to receive telephone or face-to-face counselling.

If you are struggling to cope, contact Music Minds Matter on 0808 802 8008 or email [email protected] let them know you are a PRS member.

“It doesn’t have to be a crisis, there are trained advisors that are ready to listen, support and help at any time.”