World Mental Health Day at the Lyric Theatre: Supporting Mental Health in the Creative Sector

As we mark World Mental Health Day on 10th October, the Lyric Theatre want to shine a light on the importance of mental health—especially within the creative sector, where the challenges of irregular work, high standards, and financial insecurity can take a toll on well-being.

While we work to support the mental health of our team internally, this day also serves as a reminder of the ongoing mental health crisis in the wider creative industry. Research conducted by Inspire and Ulster University in 20181 revealed that those working in Northern Ireland’s creative industries are nearly three times more likely to experience mental ill health than the general population. Now, six years on, these findings continue to resonate, raising awareness about the challenges creatives face and the need for meaningful action.

The Mental Health Crisis in the Creative Sector

The 2018 report painted a stark picture of mental health in the creative industries:

• People working in the sector were three times more likely to suffer from mental health problems compared to the general population.

• Anxiety (36%) and depression (32%) were the most common diagnoses.

• A shocking 60% of participants reported having had suicidal thoughts, with 37% having made a plan for suicide, and 16% having attempted it.

The research also highlighted factors unique to the creative industry that contributed to this crisis, including:

• Pressure to meet high standards—both externally from clients and internally from personal expectations.

• Irregular work—inconsistent contracts, lack of financial security, and long or irregular hours.

• Perceived lack of value placed on creative work, combined with inadequate financial rewards.

As Dr Gillian Shorter from Ulster University explained, “Those who work in the creative sector make an important, varied contribution to our society; these findings show we need to pay more attention to their health and well-being.”

It Still Matters in 2024

Despite the fact that this research was conducted in 2018, the issues it raised are as relevant today as they were six years ago. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, economic uncertainty, and continued pressure within the arts have exacerbated mental health issues for many.

Professor Siobhan O’Neill from Ulster University underscored the importance of this issue, noting that the findings corroborated evidence of high mental ill health and suicidality across Northern Ireland, especially in vulnerable subgroups like creatives. The question remains: how can we address these deep-rooted problems?

A Call for Greater Support

At the Lyric, we believe that the well-being of those in the creative sector should be a priority. As Peter McBride, CEO of Inspire, aptly put it at the launch of the research in 2018, “Attracting skilled, creative people is a key element of Northern Ireland’s economic strategy, and the work they produce is a pillar of our tourism offer. But the popular image of the struggling artist becomes less romantic when it crosses the line into mental ill health.”

We must move beyond the stereotype of the “struggling artist” and instead create supportive environments where mental health is valued just as much as creative output. The impact of art, culture, and performance on our society is profound, and the individuals behind it deserve the care and attention necessary to thrive both personally and professionally.

Supporting Creatives: Our Commitment

At the Lyric Theatre, we are committed to providing an environment that promotes the mental well-being of our team. Our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) offers 24/7 confidential support, while our Mental Health First Aiders are available to provide a listening ear and direct staff towards helpful resources.

But it’s not just about what we do internally—it’s about advocating for greater awareness and support for mental health across the creative industries. Together with other institutions, businesses, and policy makers, we can work towards reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and ensuring that resources are available to those who need them.

A Word from Jimmy Fay, Executive Producer at the Lyric Theatre

“We have always known that working in the arts can be incredibly fulfilling, but it can also be uniquely challenging. It’s important that we acknowledge the pressures that creative people in all areas of the Arts face and that we do everything we can to support their mental health. This World Mental Health Day, we’re reinforcing our commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for all those in the creative sector. Let’s continue to challenge the stigma and ensure that seeking help is seen as a positive step towards well-being.”

— Jimmy Fay, Executive Producer, Lyric Theatre

Looking Forward

The conversation around mental health in the creative industries must continue. While 2018's research may have been a starting point, the urgency to address these challenges remains as strong as ever. As we reflect on World Mental Health Day in 2024, we encourage the creative community, those who support it, and policy makers to push for more comprehensive mental health strategies and support systems. The well-being of those who contribute to the rich cultural fabric of Northern Ireland is too important to overlook.

If you are struggling with your mental health, or know someone who is, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Whether it’s through professional services or simply talking to a friend, take action today, you can make all the difference.

For more details on the 2018 research into mental health within the creative industries, see Ulster University's report, Research finds high levels of mental ill health in the creative industries in NI available here.