Mental Health Resources
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates that nearly one in five Americans lives with mental illness, including nearly 30% of young adults. Like physical ailments, mental health problems range from mild and intermittent to severe and persistent. Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being and problems can impact all aspects of our lives. Unfortunately, some may be discouraged from talking about the subject because of stigmas commonly associated with mental health problems. However, taking steps to maintain positive mental health and seeking assistance when needed is essential to managing stress, working productively, and realizing one’s full potential. This is especially true for musicians who face unique challenges and stresses in our lives, studies, and careers.
The ICA does not provide medical advice. Please see your primary care physician or another medical professional if you are in need of information or treatment.
If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255,
- Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free and confidential support, in English and Español, for people in emotion distress or experiencing a suicidal crisis.
- Substance Abuse and Treatment Hotline: 1-800-662-4357
- Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- The United States Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration is a government agency with a free helpline that is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They provide referrals to treatment facilities, support groups and other relevant resources. Their website also provides free resources focusing on drug addiction and substance abuse.
General Mental Health
- gov
- gov is run by the United States Department of Health and Human Services. The site draws upon information from other government agencies including the Centers for Disease Control and the National Institute of Mental Health and serves as a great jumping off point. The information is well-organized and includes resources on how to talk about mental health, signs of mental health issues, and how to get help.
- Mental Health First Aid (International link)
- Mental Health First Aid is a nonprofit organization that provides trainings to help people assist someone experiencing a mental health or substance use-related crisis. The trainings are tailored to different groups and situations including teens, workplace, and higher education, but they all address risk factors and warning signs for mental health and addiction concerns, strategies for how to help someone in both crisis and non-crisis situations, and where to turn for help.
- Mental Health America
- Mental Health America is a nonprofit that advocates for public policy that addresses the needs of those living with mental illness and promotes the overall mental health of all. Their website provides resources that align with their “Before Stage 4” philosophy of early intervention. Resources are provided for maintaining good mental health, receiving support for mental health problems, and tools for mental wellness. There are also resources for those seeking help, including an explanation of insurance and what to expect from treatment.
- National Institute of Mental Health
- A part of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the NIIMH conducts basic and clinical research to further the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses. It is not a suitable resource for those seeking treatment or experiencing a mental health crisis. However, it provides expert-reviewed information on various mental health disorders, relevant statistics, and information on clinical trials.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness
- Like other advocacy groups, the National Alliance on Mental Illness provides resources for those experiencing mental illness as well as their friends and family. There are sections devoted to warning signs and symptoms, treatments, and common conditions. For those diagnosed with a mental health condition, there are resources that cover facets of everyday life like navigating insurance and work life.
Anxiety Disorders
- Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA):
- The ADAA is a nonprofit that is dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and cure of anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and co-occurring disorders through education, practice, and research. Their “Understanding Anxiety and Depression” page is a great starting point for anyone searching for information or treatment.
- International OCD Foundation
- As the name suggests, this organization provides information on Obsessive compulsive disorder and resources for those suffering from the disorder. What sets this organization apart is their Anxiety in the Classroom site that “provides useful information, resources, and materials about anxiety and OCD as they relate to the school setting.” Information is targeted toward three groups: those who work in school systems, parents and guardians, and students.
Depression, Suicidal Intentions, and Substance Use Disorders
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (Call 800-273-8255 or text TALK to 741741 if you are in a crisis.)
- According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. This foundation provides access to help for those experiencing suicidal thoughts, resources for those concerned about someone, and advocacy materials.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
- The most useful aspects of this website from a branch of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services are the treatment locator tools. These tools can be used to find qualified treatment providers for substance abuse, behavioral health, serious mental illness, and opioid treatment. In addition to the locator tools, SAMHSA provides data and other information regarding substance abuse and mental health.
For Musicians
- Sweet Relief Musicians Fund
- This organization provides financial assistance to musicians and music industry workers who are facing setbacks due to mental or physical illness, disability, or age-related problems. They also provide a thorough list of resources related to health, finances, and other issues commonly encountered by musicians.
- Backline
- Backline provides mental health and wellness services and resources for members of the music industry and their families. Through their website, you can connect with a case manager, join support groups, and access articles related to mental health and wellness.