Why are alcohol and drugs such a big feature of DJ Life? 8 tips to help manage alcohol & drugs!
The party scene
Party life is a given for a DJ surrounded by atmosphere, adoration, music and a vibe that generates happiness and Joy.
What is the first thing you do when you go to a party apart from picking an outfit to wear?
The general answer to that question is either alcohol or drugs for most party goers to get into groove. So its no surprise when the DJ arrives to do a set, the offer of some form of alcoholic beverage is normal. After all the party revolves around the music and who is delivering the set. Drugs can and often do enter the mix, excuse the pun, so it’s very tempting to become part of the party vibe and experience the high that everyone else is into.
The DJ
DJs find it easy to slip into an alcohol and drug culture due to the fact it’s available, often free and an integral part of the party scene. A few drinks preset can also be used to help quell the nerves and manage any stressors being experienced. After all, there is a big expectation from the audience, they have paid to hear something special and they will have a great time.
Having a few drinks or taking something to take the edge off is normal on the party circuit. This in isolation is not a problem, unless the alcohol/drugs have an impact on functioning and quality of performance or become a habit used to manage feelings and emotions on a regular basis.
When the pressure of expectation, a busy programme, and range of emotions attached to the performance industry wells up. Finding a way to manage in the midst of your career starting to take off, or is in full swing is difficult. Most DJs/producers have little or no experience at an intense level in the early days, the demands of the business can be high and of course, you don’t want to let your fans down. So using something to get you started or keep you going, manage your feelings and emotions can be very tempting.
When does the use of substances have a negative impact on health and wellbeing:
- When they are used in excess and begin to impact on functioning and ability to perform.
- When they are used to manage high levels of stress, anxiety or depression.
- When you cannot perform without something to get you going.
- To manage the stresses of a busy schedule, traveling, tiredness and poor diet.
- To induce creativity, when you start to question your abilities.
- Dependency: you experience anxiety, paranoia, psychological and physical withdrawal. You just feel you cannot cope or function without alcohol and/or drugs.
- Physical health starts to be affected, extreme tiredness, repeated viral infections, urinary tract problems, thrush, ulcers, regular heartburn, pale complexion, skin disorders, aching muscles could all be early signs of health difficulties.
Any of the above signs, habits, symptoms are strong indicators that your lifestyle is having a damaging effect on health and wellbeing, you should talk to someone and seek help to make changes.
If you are experiencing negative consequences to your health and wellbeing or feel you are not coping we can help with advice, support, and therapy.
Either visit our website or email us contact@outofsynctherapy.com
Eight tips to help manage alcohol and drugs
- Like your planned set, decide how the night will go in terms of alcohol and drugs intake and stick to it.
- Make sure you understand the nature of the substances you intend to take, knowledge and insight can influence your choices.
- If you have a heavy touring schedule, then think ahead on how you can manage to stay focussed without experiencing a negative impact from alcohol and drugs between gigs.
- Have a daily planner mapped out so you are clear what needs to be done when and where. Reducing the pressure can make you feel more in control and be less likely to need something to help you cope with the stress.
- Be aware of your limitations and how it impacts on your functioning, your reputation and performance are important to you and your career.
- Use alternatives when offered something,
alcohol free beer, soft drinks, water or a drug that has less of a comedown the next day. - The ultimate safety net is no alcohol or drugs, tell yourself your there to do a job and the best way to do it is straight.
- Do not use alcohol or drugs to manage severe stress, anxiety or depression, it will only make it worse and you could become hooked in very quickly, leading to a
dependancy on the substances to manage how you feel.
If you are experiencing negative consequences to your health and wellbeing or feel
Contact us at outofsynctherapy.com
