The life of a musician is often romanticised as one of passion and creative freedom. Yet, behind the curtain, a staggering number of artists grapple with the silent epidemic of burnout. Research shows a significant percentage of musicians experience high anxiety and mental health struggles, far exceeding the general population. For a therapy blog, understanding that burnout in this population is less a personal failing and more a systemic and psychological perfect storm is crucial for fostering self-compassion and seeking effective support.

This deep dive explores the interwoven professional and psychological factors that make musicians uniquely vulnerable to chronic stress and exhaustion.

In my work as a psychotherapeutic counsellor—and as someone who also navigates the world as a musician—I’ve come to recognise some of the distinct needs creatives bring into the therapy room. This post explores how we, as therapists, can better hold space for those whose identities are entwined with creativity.