Anxiety in the Music Industry

More than 70% of those working in the music industry have suffered symptoms related to either anxiety or depression. Generalized anxiety disorder not only affects the way a person thinks, feels, and behaves but it can lead to physical symptoms as well. Such as restlessness or a feeling of being edgy, irritability, and muscle tension. Not many musicians dare to talk about it though. (Not many agents or managers either)

Most people in the music business work as small entrepreneurs. For that it doesn’t matter if you are an artist, a manager or an agent. Most small entrepreneurs are in continuous stress of making ends meet. That’s where anxiety starts. Working hours on weekends and in the evening can make it very difficult to maintain balance and a social life. The music business is always changing, you can’t plan 5 or 10 years ahead. You have to be flexible and can’t plan your own time. And while you manage to keep your head high in these harsh conditions, friends and family don’t consider your work as ‘real work’. I’m not even talking about the physical load of working in the music business.

For women, the macho culture in the music business makes it even worse. I don’t know a women who hasn’t experienced sexist remarks or sexual advances that ultimately raise a level of social anxiety in them which stifles creativity and in some cases results in a form of creators/writers block. Finding a balance between work and family is pretty hard too, there is no kindergarten open at night.

What still makes it worth while to work in the music business, is the passion you have for music. You feel privileged to be able to follow your passion. The same passion makes it difficult to create a healthy distance to the subject of your work.
If you suffer from anxiety or depression, my advice is this:
* embrace routine
* write down your moods on a daily basis
* exercise
* eat healthy and regularly
* cut down on alcohol/tobacco/weed
* Meditate, pray, balance chakras
To all my artist, You matter! We see you. You are not alone. If you suffer from anxiety please share your story. There are many others right there beside you that may need the conversation!

Do you know anyone in music industry that suffers from Anxiety? If so, please forward this message. It just might save their life. #ChangeTheVibe