Investing in Mental Health Will Create a More Sustainable and Profitable Music Industry (Guest Column)

The persistent debate surrounding mental health within the music industry has placed a spotlight on the responsibilities of record labels, management firms, and other corporate entities in safeguarding artists' wellbeing. This issue, which has simmered for years, is now the subject of a compelling guest commentary arguing for a more proactive and evolved industry role. The authors, Dr. Aprilia West PsyD, MT, PCC—a licensed clinical psychologist, executive coach, and music industry veteran with over two decades of experience working with artists and leaders across entertainment, tech, and even U.S. Congress—and David Andreone, MA, AMFT, founder of ArtistServices Therapy in Culver City, bring a unique blend of clinical expertise and insider knowledge. Andreone, who previously held executive A&R roles at Warner Chappell Music and Sony Music Entertainment, co-created the television series "Rough Draft" with Reza Aslan, giving him a firsthand view of the pressures facing talent. Their central argument is that while Hollywood has gradually increased support for actors, the music sector lags dangerously behind, leaving artists to navigate a landscape with far fewer protections than those found in film and television, where union rules, on-set tutors, and mandated work limits offer a safety net for minors and, increasingly, adults.

The current environment for artists is described as a "sink or swim" scenario, marked by grueling tour schedules, unsupervised recording sessions, and relentless promotional cycles that often ignore developmental needs. Social media demands constant engagement, streaming platforms push for endless content, and tours—now primary revenue sources—have grown longer and more punishing. Financial rewards have become increasingly uncertain, with most artists earning far less from recorded music than earlier generations. This pressure is compounded by evidence suggesting creatives are more vulnerable to mood disorders, anxiety, and depression than the general population. Yet, despite research showing that evidence-based interventions can significantly improve outcomes, the music industry has been slow to adopt mandatory support systems. In contrast, TV and film productions have begun incorporating mental health coordinators—such as on the set of the upcoming film "Mother Mary" starring Anne Hathaway and Michaela Coel—and reality TV shows now offer on-demand counseling. The music industry, however, has only seen piecemeal efforts, like the Recording Academy's MusiCares, Universal and Warner Music Group's new partnerships, and Sony's in-house program "Artists Forward," but these have not been embedded into contracts. As a result, many artists lack basic skills in finance, contract negotiation, time management, and relationship maintenance, which exacerbates mental health struggles and fuels a culture where ordinary challenges are mischaracterized as personal failings.

From a business perspective, the lack of meaningful mental health support is not just an ethical oversight—it represents a significant financial and legal risk. When artists suffer from burnout, substance abuse, or psychological crises, their ability to create, perform, and sustain long-term careers is compromised, leading to diminished output, disrupted revenue, and shortened career spans. The industry is littered with cautionary tales of promising talent derailed by preventable crises. Research consistently shows that individuals with higher wellbeing perform better, adapt more effectively under pressure, and maintain success over time. Therefore, investing in artist wellbeing is directly tied to business success. Companies that fail to provide such support are ultimately undermining their own investments, as an artist in crisis may become unable to fulfill contractual obligations or maintain creative consistency. Legal implications are also growing, with high-profile lawsuits in the broader entertainment industry highlighting failures of care. As awareness of duty of care increases, the music industry's historically hands-off approach leaves labels and management firms vulnerable to similar challenges, making proactive support a strategic necessity.

The proposed solution involves contracting with professionals to design comprehensive, evidence-based programs tailored to each artist's specific needs. This would include a two-phase approach: first, a psychological assessment, feedback, and a personalized wellbeing plan; second, one-on-one mental health coaching, concierge-style support, and referrals to specialists as needed. By equipping artists with tools to build sustainable careers, they become more reliable, creative, and resilient performers. Labels and management companies would benefit from reduced risks of mental health crises, legal issues, and career implosions, representing significant cost savings compared to losses from burnout or breakdown. The music industry, the authors argue, stands at a crossroads. It can no longer treat artist wellbeing as a luxury but must recognize it as a necessity. As the broader entertainment industry gradually adopts best practices, the music sector must evolve to protect its greatest assets: the human beings behind the talent. Investing in their support is not just ethical—it is good business, ensuring a healthier, more sustainable future for all stakeholders. Variety welcomes responsible commentary on this topic; interested contributors can contact music@variety.com.