RCM Health 

Mark Freedman is a Mental Health Professional by day and Musician by night (and sometimes the other way around) who works closely with artists and creatives.

The work that I do is driven by 5 principles:

• Knowledge
• Skills
• Kindness
• Caring
• Compassion

Drawing from both clinical expertise and lived experience, Mark understands the complex mental health challenges musicians face—such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, performance stress, and substance use.

His work addresses the toll of financial instability, late-night lifestyles, and the pressure of public performance. Mark is committed to fostering resilience and advocating for accessible mental health support within the arts community.

Mental Health Challenges Among Musicians: A Growing Concern

Musicians face unique occupational stressors that place them at significantly higher risk for various mental health challenges compared to the general population. Research consistently highlights a disproportionate prevalence of mood disorders, anxiety, substance use, and other mental health concerns within this creative workforce.

Elevated Rates of Depression and Anxiety
Depression and anxiety are among the most frequently reported conditions among musicians. These often stem from a constellation of stressors including irregular income, intense performance pressure, critical public exposure, and the emotional vulnerability inherent in
artistic expression. Chronic stress is further compounded by the instability of freelance work and the competitive nature of the music industry.

Substance Use Disorders
Musicians are also more susceptible to substance use issues, which frequently originate as maladaptive coping strategies for managing performance anxiety or navigating the social expectations of music culture. The late-night work environment, combined with access to
substances, increases the likelihood of dependency, often normalized within certain music scenes.

Performance and Social Anxiety
Performance anxiety affects many musicians, ranging from mild nervousness to debilitating stage fright that can interfere with careers. This can develop into broader social anxiety or panic disorders.

Bipolar Disorder and Mood Dysregulation
Bipolar disorder is reported at higher rates among creative professionals, including musicians. The emotional intensity of creative work, coupled with erratic sleep schedules and lifestyle fluctuations, may contribute to the onset or exacerbation of mood episodes. The artistic highs and subsequent lows can mirror the manic-depressive cycles characteristic of this disorder.

Sleep Disruption
Sleep disorders are widespread in this population, often the result of inconsistent work hours, travel demands, and late-night performances. Sleep deprivation negatively impacts cognitive
function, emotional regulation, and resilience, which can in turn intensify pre-existing mental health concerns.

Hearing-Related Mental Health Impacts
Hearing-related issues, while physical, often contribute to mental health problems. Tinnitus, hearing loss, and hyperacusis can cause significant distress and impact quality of life.

Contributing Psychosocial and Structural Factors
Contributing factors include financial instability, social isolation despite public performance, perfectionism, identity tied closely to performance ability, and lack of traditional employment benefits like health insurance. The pressure to maintain a public persona while struggling privately can prevent musicians from seeking help.

Towards a Culture of Mental Wellness in Music
Fortunately, awareness is increasing across the industry. Many music organizations, unions, and venues are now offering targeted mental health support, including counseling, peer support programs, and mental health education. The shift toward prioritizing artist wellbeing reflects a broader cultural recognition that sustainable artistry depends not only on talent, but also on psychological safety and support.