Out of Sync Therapy
Helping you manage your lifewellbeing for DJs
Depression, Isolation and Drug Addiction: When DJing becomes a Mental Health Issue
Context
In recent years increased attention has identified some of the difficulties DJs / producers face in respect of the framework in which they operate. Mental health, alcohol, and drugs seem to be a key feature for some working in the industry. Many DJs have identified and talked about how difficult it can be to manage the lifestyle associated with the scene. Some very high profile cases in recent years have drawn attention to the lack of support services available for people who work in the industry. Articles have been published by Thump, Mixmag, DJ Mag, Magnetic magazine, DJ Digital tips, and DJ Techtools, newsletters highlighting the problems DJs face maintaining good health and wellbeing, particularly when building and sustaining a profile. The stresses and anxieties associated with the business are high, impacting on mental health and wellbeing. The recent death of Avicii (Tim Bergling) highlights how the industry can have an adverse impact on mental health. It is important for those who work in the performance field to look after their mental health, by understanding the strains, stressors, ups and downs associated with the career, so they can manage the lifestyle and have a sustainable work life balance.
DJs, music producers and live entertainers who work in the club, pub and party scene
People who work in this sector have a unique employment profile, they are often required to perform and entertain audiences into the early hours of the morning, produce a high standard of entertainment and travel on a regular basis, this can often long distances and on consecutive days. This can have particular demands on individuals physically, mentally, emotionally, socially and psychologically, which can lead to difficulties and problems:
• Late nights leading to a disrupted or lack of sleep pattern.
• Find it difficult to unwind, relax or chill out.
• Irregular eating habits or poor diet.
• Travelling long distances regularly.
• Away from friends, family and support.
• Tiredness which can impact on functioning and performance.
• Pressure, stress and anxiety to constantly perform well.
• Partying too hard during and after gigs with alcohol and drugs.
• Low mood associated with lifestyle and many of the above factors that can lead to depression if not managed well.
• Lack of regular exercise or interests outside of work• Feelings of isolation associated with the performance lifestyle.
What we can offer
My colleague and I have devised a program of intervention to help manage the difficulties that can be experienced with the profession and performance aspects. Each individual will have a plan devised following an initial discussion of your needs, which could combine some or all of the following elements.
• Improved pressure and stress management techniques.
• How to recognise anxiety and depression: help with
• Improved self- awareness and emotional wellbeing strategies.
• Food and diet.
• Understanding the triggers and potential pitfalls
• The role and importance of activities outside of performing.
• Improved
• Recognising strengths and weaknesses.
• Awareness and impact of drugs and alcohol on physical and psychological wellbeing: looking at alternative and self-management strategies.
• Sleep Hygiene.
If you are interested in this service or would like more information, visit our contact page and select the method of contact that suits you best.