Mental Health Helpline Set Up To Support Musicians

6 December 2017, 12:22 | Updated: 19 November 2018, 15:58

The charity Help Musicians UK have taken a huge step forward in the conversation around depression, with many high profile supporters expressing their approval.

In the wake of the sad death of Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington and the increasingly open discussion surrounding mental health among musicians, a charity based in the UK have set up a brand new helpline to deal with these issues aimed specifically at people within the industry.

Help Musicians UK have launched "Music Minds Matter", a 24/7 telephone number for musicians, created in response to a 2016 study that found that 71.1 percent of music industry respondents had experienced panic attacks and/or high levels of anxiety, while 68.5 percent had experienced depression.

According to their official website, "Music Minds Matter is the industry’s most comprehensive service yet – linking advice, signposting, clinical pathways and professional therapeutic services to Help Musicians UK’s (HMUK) traditional grants for musicians in need. With 96 years of experience, HMUK understands the complexity of working in music and recognises the need for support to reflect the nature and unique challenges those in the industry can face. If you want someone to talk to, or even explore avenues for ongoing support, get in touch, anytime. We’re here to help."

High profile figures from the world of music have already expressed their support for the project including Beatles legend Sir Paul McCartney:

The number, for those in the UK, is 0808 802 8008. You can also talk to them via email at MMM@helpmusicians.org.uk.