Every year, Mental Health Awareness Day or Week rolls around, yet our mental health – and the state it’s in – is something we carry with us 24/7.

Written by Athena Pite, PRS Members’ Fund Member Support & Service Development Manager

As a songwriter, composer, or performer, you know that the public ‘feel-good’ images of social media validation, streaming success, and crowd adulation often stand in stark contrast to the realities behind them. These are just surface-level snapshots of an industry upon which those so-called glamorous moments are built. We know from studies that people in the music industry, especially musicians, are more likely to experience mental health challenges, including being up to three times more likely to experience depression. The tragic death of Liam Payne is a heartbreaking reminder of how far external perceptions can be from the inner struggles faced by those in the public eye.

As a PRS member, you’ve likely encountered firsthand the financial uncertainty, isolation, long irregular hours, stress, and public criticism that can take a toll on both physical and mental well-being. Creativity in such circumstances can be tough, especially without factoring in the demands of touring or its impact on relationships. These stressors can be even more challenging if you’re neurodivergent, have a chronic or acute health condition, or are Black, Asian, or from another ethnic group.

It’s normal for our emotional and psychological well-being to fluctuate. However, if you find yourself consistently struggling, it’s important to reach out for support. While awareness of mental health and wellbeing has grown it can still feel difficult to ask for help. When you’re in the thick of things, it’s also hard to pause and figure out ‘what’s next’ or where to turn. It’s a fundamental part of being human to need support at different times in life, and we want to make sure you know what’s available to you as a PRS member. You might not need it now, but like that old track you love to occasionally play, it’s helpful to know where it is and how to find it!

The PRS Members’ Fund has a partnership with Music Minds Matter – a 24/7 support line (0808 802 8008; musicmindsmatter.org.uk). You can call for a listening ‘in-the-moment’ support, or if you think a few sessions of ongoing counselling might help. Either way, when you call, you’ll usually speak directly with a trained counsellor, and as an eligible PRS member*, it won’t cost you a penny.

We also know that addiction, in its many forms, is another challenge many in music face. It’s important to remember that you don’t need to go it alone. The PRS Members’ Fund collaborates closely with Music Support to offer support for addiction recovery. You can get in touch with either the Fund or Music Support in complete confidence to find out more.

On the broader theme of overall health and wellbeing, we’re excited to announce the forthcoming launch of InTune – a brand-new digital platform designed exclusively for PRS members to help you stay on top of your health and wellbeing. Developed in partnership with BAPAM, the clinical experts for the performing arts, InTune provides personalised insights into your physical and mental wellbeing, helping you build resilience and maintain peak performance in your career.

* 7 years a member or have earnt £500 in royalties, but don’t worry if you are not eligible for Fund-MMM support, you can still access MMM via help Musicians.

If you are in crisis or in need of emergency support, please contact your GP or call 111. Other, general support is also available at Mind (0300 123 3393), Samaritans (116 123) and for text-based support from South x Headstock, text MUSIC to 85258.

Athena Pite is a registered social worker and a Mental Health First Aider.