Theatre 604

About
Contact

Mental Health Challenges Faced in the Theatre Industry (And Ways to Overcome Them)

Mental Health Conditions

A 2022 study by Equity, a UK performing arts and entertainment trade union, has found that people who work in the performing arts are more likely to experience poor mental health.

Among its findings are that depression is twice as likely to occur in performers as in the general population, and that 54% of musical theatre students report a level of depression or anxiety that meets the rate for diagnosis of mental disorder.

The pressure and stress of the industry can contribute to substance abuse as a coping mechanism. Tensions are high, and people are already in a vulnerable state because of the nature of the work.

Emotional Exposure

Acting is a demanding profession requiring total immersion in the characters portrayed. This transformation is vital to the craft but can blur the lines between personal identity and on-stage persona. For actors with mental health issues, this shift can lead to emotional and psychological challenges.

A key challenge in acting is convincingly adopting a character’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, which may differ significantly from the actor’s personality. Authentic portrayal of characters with severe mental health issues can also take a toll.

Immersing in another’s life can make you forget your own, but once that role ends, you return to reality. This may cause “post-production blues,” ranging from mild discontent to temporary disorientation, and sometimes more lasting effects.

Unstable Income

The theatre industry is known for its unstable income due to irregular work patterns and reliance on project-based work, which can make it difficult to secure consistent employment. This instability can restrain actors’ ability to plan for the future, such as taking out loans or mortgages.

Most theatre roles, especially for performers and some technicians, are project-based; they are hired for a specific production and their employment ends when the show closes.

Some theatres, particularly smaller ones, operate on a seasonal basis, leading to periods of high activity followed by extended periods of inactivity.

The arts are often underfunded, leading to lower salaries, fewer career advancement opportunities, and challenges in securing financial support for productions and organizations.

Difficulty Maintaining Relationships

Balancing an acting career with personal relationships can be challenging. Irregular hours, travel, and downtime, makes it difficult to maintain consistent routines and connections with loved ones, resulting in loneliness and isolation.

In romantic relationships, if a partner isn’t involved in the industry, they may struggle to grasp the unique pressures of acting. Scenes with violence, dysfunction, or intimacy can lead to misunderstandings and conflict. They may worry about infidelity, causing trust issues.

Success in theatre involves interacting with peers, colleagues, and fans. Navigating professional relationships while maintaining personal boundaries can be complex, as the lines between personal and professional interactions often blur.

Ways to Overcome Them:

Practice Self-Care

As an actor, it’s important to practice self-care by putting your well-being at the forefront. This can involve simple yet effective habits like enjoying nutritious meals, getting regular exercise, and ensuring you have plenty of restful sleep.

Engaging in activities such as meditation, journaling, and spending quality time with loved ones can also make a great difference. Taking care of yourself is vital for managing stress and nurturing both your emotional and physical health, which helps support a sustainable acting career.

It’s wonderful to acknowledge your efforts and achievements, no matter how small they might feel. Let go of the self-criticism and embrace yourself with the same kindness you’d share with a friend.

Seek Professional Help

The acting industry often presents challenges that can be both demanding and stressful, possibly resulting in mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or imposter syndrome.

Pursuing help from therapists or counselors who specialize in the entertainment sector can offer customized support and coping strategies for these challenges.

If you’re struggling with mental health, connect with a professional. Options include online chat counselling, telephone counselling, face-to-face sessions, and classes or workshops. Therapy provides a secure space for actors to explore their emotions and learn effective coping mechanisms.

Taking the first step can be daunting, but consider it an investment in your acting career.

Build a Support Network

Building a strong support network is essential for maintaining your mental well-being, personal growth and career longevity. Connections can open doors, provide opportunities, and help you grow personally and professionally.

Industry events, mixers, and networking gatherings offer actors essential chances to engage with casting directors, agents, producers, and other performers.

Besides attending in-person events, utilize online platforms and social media to broaden your network and connect with a larger audience.

Surround yourself with a strong support system of theatre professionals, mentors, and loved ones who understand your career’s unique demands. This network offers emotional support, guidance, and community, essential for navigating the industry’s ups and downs.

Diversify Your Skills

While theatre may be your focus, consider developing complementary skills that can open up additional income. This includes teaching, writing, directing, or opportunities in film, television, or corporate training.

Aim to master various genres. Versatile actors are comfortable navigating through various genres. Whether it’s romance, action, or horror, grasping the nuances of each genre is essential.

Study the pacing, tone, and mannerisms associated with different genres to embody the characters within them authentically.

Remember that success in the acting industry often takes time and effort. Embrace the learning process and remain positive even when facing challenges!

SOURCES

Leave a comment