• Feb, 15-2022

    How to take care of your mental health as a musician

    Here are some realistic recommendations from Chartin music that will help you make a difference.

    It's important to look after your mind as a musician. 


    Artists have been historically plagued with mental health issues. One study shows that about 73 percent of musicians report symptoms of mental illness. And among those with mental illness, 50 percent battle with addiction over the course of their lives.


    It can be difficult to know where to start. Particularly because music minds work differently. We often have to stay up late, live an inconsistent routine, and exploit our creativity. 


    Here are some realistic recommendations from Chartin music that will help you make a difference.


    1. Mental Health Podcast


    Podcasts are an excellent way to learn more about mental health issues and common interventions, as many discuss self-care and provide practical strategies for taking care of your well-being.


    Listeners can also learn from renowned psychologists, authors, and lecturers. It is important to note, however, that a podcast should never take the place of therapy. Read on for our roundup of the best mental health podcasts. 


    Best Overall: The Positive Psychology Podcast
    Best for Anxiety: The Anxiety Podcast
    Best for Time Constraints: Meditation Minis
    Best for Humor: The Hilarious World of Depression
    Best for Emotional Trauma: The Trauma Therapist Podcast
    Best for Complex Topics: Tara Brach


    (source: verywell mind)


    2. Music 


    Researchers from the MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour and Development have found that music increases memory and retention as well as maximizes learning capabilities.


    Our brains trigger particular emotions, memories and thoughts, which often leads to more positive effects toward mental health.
    So what type of music is best for mental health?


    The genres most likely to support relaxation are classical, soft pop and certain types of world music. These are found to largely contain the musical elements necessary to help a person relax.


    Here’s a playlist to calm the mind from a music therapist. 

    (source: theconversation.com


    3. Connection


    Good relationships are important for your mental wellbeing.


    They can:
    - help you to build a sense of belonging and self-worth
    - give you an opportunity to share positive experiences
    - provide emotional support and allow you to support others


    There are lots of things you could try to help build stronger and closer relationships:


    If possible, take time each day to be with your family.


    For example,

    - try arranging a fixed time to eat dinner together.
    - arrange a day out with friends you have not seen for a while
    - try switching off the TV to talk or play a game with your children, friends or family
    - have lunch with a colleague
    - visit a friend or family member who needs support or company
    - volunteer at a local school, hospital or community group. 
    - make the most of technology to stay in touch with friends and family. Video-chat apps like Skype and FaceTime are useful, especially if you live far apart

    (source: NHS)


    4. Learn new skills



    Research shows that learning new skills can also improve your mental wellbeing by:
    - boosting self-confidence and raising self-esteem
    - helping you to build a sense of purpose
    - helping you to connect with others


    Even if you feel like you do not have enough time, or you may not need to learn new things, there are lots of different ways to bring learning into your life.


    Some of the things you could try include:
    - try learning to cook something new. Find out about healthy eating and cooking tips
    - try taking on a new responsibility at work, such as mentoring a junior staff member or improving your presentation skills
    - work on a DIY project, such as fixing a broken bike, garden gate or something bigger. There are lots of free video tutorials online

    consider signing up for a course at a local college.

    - You could try learning a new language or a practical skill such as plumbing
    - try new hobbies that challenge you, such as writing a blog, taking up a new sport or learning to paint

    (source: NHS)




    We also offer CHARTIN Helpline at info@chartinmusic.com.
    Email us with your concern & we'll get back to you as soon as we can. 


    This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. And is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for health advice. You should consult your own advisors and/or mental health professionals before making any personal decisions.