Back in 2019, before Covid consumed our lives, the pastor of my church said we were experiencing a “mental health epidemic”. Fast forward to today we are in the middle of a global pandemic and the so called “mental health epidemic” is getting worse still.
So many people I meet struggle with poor mental health in some way. So far this year almost 900 people have tragically died from the virus however I have been shocked to learn that each year over 3000 Australians lose their life to suicide.
I find this news devastating and I know you do too. Mental health struggles vary between person to person but everyone deserves to feel safe and heard and supported no matter their situation. You are not a burden. You are so worthy of love.
2020 has brought many new challenges to the already vulnerable music scene. From my experience of the music scene so far, it can involve a lot of rejection, job instability and financial strain - all of which have worsened this year.
Despite this, there is still so much to be grateful for:
increase in government funding for mental health services
“ruokay” the campaign to encourage people to open up and connect with others about their struggles
“Listen Up Music Org” a charity supporting musicians to practice good mental health
and more - write your own list - you won’t regret it :)
No matter what your spiritual philosophy is it is so important to be aware of the big picture and to have hope. As a woman of Christian faith, I find my hope in the constancy of God and have kept this verse up on my wall as a reminder:
“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps”
Proverbs 16:9
2020 has seen so many of my music plans cancelled and more tears than I’d like to admit. It has been so tough for everyone. But I trust that this too shall pass. My hope is that we use this time to deepen friendships, increase kindness to strangers and practice more self-love.
Here is a link to a playlist I made full of encouraging songs for dark days:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0uxpnGyywEaVOQi7BBdPfI?si=PSXMP-XsS0Kk4vvLecg9yw
If you are struggling please have the courage to ask for help.
Support Act: 1300 731 303
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Headspace: 1800 650 8980
Stay safe,
AW xo