What support is there for mental health in theatre?

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Here are some companies, charities and websites that offer support around mental health aimed at those working in the theatre and performing arts industry.

Arts Minds

http://www.artsminds.co.uk/

ArtsMinds is a collaborative initiative from British Association of Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM), Equity, Spotlight and The Stage to bring together into one place a raft of resources for Performers and creative practitioners facing mental health issues.

UK Theatre’s 24 hour theatre helpline

https://uktheatre.org/theatre-industry/news/24-hour-theatre-helpline-launched/

UK Theatre and Society of London Theatre (SOLT) have launched Theatre Helpline, a free 24-hour phone and email service supporting theatre professionals with any issues affecting their health and well being.

The confidential resource offers support and advice on a range of personal and professional topics, including bullying, physical and mental health, finance, careers and retirement issues. It is open to anyone working in theatre, whether in-house or freelance.

Callers will be given a safe place to share worries and concerns, and be provided with the resources they need to seek professional help if necessary.

Playing Sane

https://www.playingsane.org/

Playing Sane is a UK-based website for Actors dealing with mental health issues.

The aim of the site is to provide information, discuss issues, signpost to services and to fundraise for research and engagement. It aims to offer information and signposting to Actors, their colleagues and carers across the industry.

Playing Sane features an ongoing collection of original pieces from Actors and related professionals specifically designed to help people connect and develop.

TALK

https://twitter.com/talkcommunity1

Talk is a community where anybody working in the entertainment industry can get together and simply discuss any challenges or mental health issues they are facing.

TALK has been set up by two Performers who post on Twitter when they will hold their next free meet up and where.

Industry Minds

https://twitter.com/industrymindsuk?lang=en

Industry Minds is a podcast created to discuss mental health for people working in the creative industries and it now offers free one-to-one counselling sessions over Skype. The Industry Minds podcast was set up by Actors Scarlett Maltman and Cathy Read with the aim of opening up the conversation around mental health in the arts. The Skype or telephone sessions are free and are available to all creatives studying or working in the arts, including Actors, Musicians, Designers and Choreographers.