According to some researchers (and me) belongingness is a fundamental human need, essential for psychological well-being and self-esteem.
A sense of belonging is critical for us all, more so in the volatile, often objectifying and glorious music industry. This belonging can help to provide a buffer for the mental health of us musicians, providing emotional stability, fostering motivation, and mitigating the pressures associated with our careers.
Musicians often experience emotional highs and lows, from the exhilaration of performing to the disappointment of criticism or rejection. Having a sense of belonging within a community offers a support network that can provide emotional stability during these wobbly fluctuations. Peer support from fellow musicians, mentors, and fans can validate our experiences and emotions, helping to navigate the challenges of the musicking profession. Research tells us that this social support is directly linked to lower levels of depression and anxiety, hugely prevalent among musicians and manifests in a number of ways.
One way in which belonging manifests is through acceptance. This feeling of acceptance in community can significantly enhance a musician's motivation and creative output. When we feel accepted and valued, we are more likely to take creative risks and express ourselves authentically. This sense of belonging fosters an environment where musicians can collaborate, share ideas, and receive constructive feedback, all of which are essential for creative growth. Additionally, the music industry is notoriously competitive and can exert immense pressure on individuals. A strong sense of belonging can act as a buffer against these stresses, offering a sanctuary where we can recharge and find solace. Some studies highlight how social identification and belonging are crucial in reducing the impact of stress and burnout.
Musicians can often experience isolation due to the demands of touring and long hours of practice. A sense of belonging helps mitigate these potential feelings of loneliness by providing meaningful social connections, within peer groups especially. Regular interaction with a supportive community therefore alleviates isolation that can lead to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. It is this social isolation that significantly increases the risk of mental health problems, further emphasising the importance of belonging for our overall well-being. From a wider perspective, engaging in communal activities, whether through performances, collaborative projects, or social events can also reinforce the idea that we are part of something larger. Whether through gigs, touring, recording or rehearsing, the community and relational aspect of musicking is another key component of our belonging as musicians.
In general, a sense of belonging is vital for all of us musicians' (and all those in the music industry) mental health, offering emotional support, enhancing motivation and creativity, buffering against industry pressures, reinforcing personal identity and self-esteem, combating isolation, and providing a sense of community and purpose. By fostering environments where musicians feel connected and valued we can support the mental well-being of those involved. So now you know, go and sign up for the Tonic Rider Peer Support Group.
Adam Ficek hosts a monthly show 'Tonic Music' on Totally Wired Radio, where he talks to various guests about music and mental health. You can listen again to any of the previous show on the Tonic Music Mixcloud page.
