If you’re feeling “blue,” you’re not alone.
A recent study found that more than seven out of ten (73%) independent music makers have experienced negative emotions such as stress, anxiety and/or depression in relation to their music creation. Whether you’re an artist, manager, LD, sound engineer, label executive, or any other job in the music industry, the instability and constant critique of your work can be a lot to handle. If you find yourself down or feeling blue, here’s a few simple things that can help.
Eat Well: Research continues to show that eating healthy can have a direct effect on your mental health. Recent studies have shown that there is actually a link between eating well and decreased rates of mental health struggles such as Anxiety and Depression. If you’re on tour, check out our tips for eating healthy on the road (link to healthy eating page)
Practice Gratitude: Even if it’s something simple (being alive, your breath, the food on your table), take a moment to find something in your life to be grateful for. Research has shown that cultivating gratitude enhances emotional wellbeing and increases levels of happiness*.
Exercise: Regular exercise can have a profoundly positive impact on your mood and has been linked to lower rates of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more. It relieves stress, improves memory, and helps with sleep. Even if it’s something as simple as taking a walk around the block, modest amounts of exercise can make a significant difference.
Breathe: It may sound simple, but focusing on your breath can have significant impacts on the regulation of your nervous system and in controlling anxiety in your daily life. By focusing on the sensation of the inhale and exhale of your breath, you are both grounding yourself in the moment and practicing the most basic and important form of meditation.
Find Inspiration: Whether it’s your favorite episode of a TV series, your favorite piece of music, your go-to book, or your favorite TED talk, ACTIVELY engage in an activity that you know will inspire you. Finding inspiration has the ability to lift our spirits and give us a boost of energy to get through tough times.
If you’re experiencing more intense sadness than just feeling ‘blue’, click here (link to depression one pager) to learn more about Depression and Anxiety.
**Emmons, R. A. & McCullough, M. E. (2003). Counting blessings versus burdens: An experimental investigation of gratitude and subjective well-being in daily life. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 84, 377–389.
