From the outside, the world of music and show business is often portrayed as glamorous and successful. However, the reality behind the scenes can tell a different story. DJs and musicians who perform in front of thousands of people and produce hit songs often face the challenges of fame and a stressful lifestyle. Emphasizing mental well-being in this industry is therefore crucial.

Avicii (Tim Bergling) – Avicii was a world-renowned Swedish DJ and producer. He passed away in April 2018. Erick Morillo was an American DJ and producer who passed away in September 2020. Frankie Knuckles is considered the "Godfather of House Music." He passed away in March 2014.

Even though few speak openly about it and/or confirm it, the number of unreported suicides among musicians and DJs is very high. Therefore, mental health is a crucial issue that should no longer be ignored, nor should certain signs be dismissed simply as excessive alcohol and drug use.

In this blog post, we will discuss why mental health is so important for DJs and musicians, and how everyone can contribute.

The stresses of the DJ and musician lifestyle

DJs and musicians often live in a world of sleep deprivation, constant travel, and public pressure. This can lead to significant stress. The constant time pressure, high expectations, and relentless competition for gigs and hits are all factors that can negatively impact mental health. Some artists may also be prone to substance abuse or other destructive behaviors as a way to cope with this pressure.

This lifestyle also reduces the social environment (of ordinary working people) or focuses it solely on this milieu.

Why is the mental health of DJs and musicians important?

Mental health is crucial for everyone, but in the music industry, it can mean the difference between success and failure. An artist suffering from chronic stress or mental health issues may struggle to be creative and perform at their best on stage or in the studio. This can negatively impact their career and lead to a vicious cycle of failure and declining mental health.

When working professionally with artists, musicians, or DJs, good and comprehensive communication is essential. Unfortunately, over the years I've observed that clients and agencies often send inquiries, but after receiving a proposal, they don't even bother to respond. Even if it doesn't lead to a contract, this is at least the minimum level of appreciation and respect one can show. For artists, musicians, or DJs already in a downward spiral, such a response can be the final straw.

But even all those agency staff who join in the fun at the event and think everything is great aren't capable of responding to the invoice and sending a few words of feedback to the booked artist, musician, or DJ. It happens all the time, and I sometimes have to shake my head because that's not what good communication looks like to me.

The music industry has begun to address mental health more openly in recent years, as more and more artists speak about their own experiences. Prominent examples like Zedd and Zayn Malik have spoken about their mental health challenges, thereby reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues within the industry.

While prominent figures have the opportunity to speak about it, many who don't receive such a large platform are also affected and are often ridiculed or, at best, ignored in a social environment already dominated by nightlife when this topic comes up in conversation. Unfortunately, this applies to everyone who has chosen this path as their profession out of a love for music and art.

How can everyone from the outside contribute?

Everyone can contribute to supporting the mental health of DJs and musicians. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Show empathy: Simply listening and showing that you are there for artists can make a big difference.
2. Communication: Always respond to business inquiries (booking requests, etc.), even if no order is placed. It's a simple sign of appreciation.
3. Spread awareness: Share information about mental health in the music industry to reduce stigma and promote education.
4. Offer support: If you work in the music industry, create a supportive environment for artists where they can openly discuss their mental challenges.
5. Encourage professional help: If you notice that an artist needs help, encourage them to seek professional assistance. Therapists and counselors can often make a crucial contribution to their recovery.

Conclusion

The mental health of DJs and musicians is of paramount importance, and everyone can contribute to supporting these artists. By raising awareness of the mental health challenges in the music industry and building a supportive community, we can help ensure that the sound of the music industry remains harmonious and healthy.

Let's work together to ensure that the music industry produces not only good sounds, but also good mental health. That would certainly be desirable...

Last but not least, there is now some music, from a great musician I discovered while researching this topic.

BRITTON - "Liberated" was written and published by her for World Suicide Prevention Day 2021...