A Two-Way Street: The Shared Journey of Mental Well-being

Today, I want to pause from the usual discussions about art and music to focus on a topic of vital importance—our mental well-being. Over the years of performing, coaching, and collaborating, I've seen how crucial it is for us as artists to be attuned not just to our craft but also to our emotional and psychological state.

The Weight of Silence: The Invisible Burden and Why We Don’t Seek Help

In the highly competitive and often stressful realm of performing arts, the stigma surrounding mental health is magnified. Many performers wear a mask, a veneer of composure that hides their internal struggles. The fear of appearing weak or needy often acts as a barricade, discouraging many from seeking help. This silence grows heavy, creating an unhealthy environment where emotional distress not only goes unacknowledged but also becomes normalised.

How to Take the First Step: From Personal Experience

Recognising you need help is the inaugural step in a healing journey. For performers who spend so much time in the spotlight, stepping into the vulnerability of admitting a struggle can be frightening yet liberating. Speaking from experience, the act of opening up can itself be therapeutic. Depending on your comfort zone, this could mean talking to a close friend, a family member, or even a healthcare professional. Either way, initiating that conversation is the first hurdle crossed in the longer race towards mental well-being.

The Role of a Listener: How Support Makes a Difference

Listening is an often-underestimated skill that can profoundly impact someone's life. In the context of mental health, being a compassionate and empathetic listener can be transformative. Your support can provide an emotional anchor for someone who feels adrift, potentially turning a life around. The emotional relief that comes from being heard and understood cannot be overstated, and it often serves as the first vital step toward seeking more structured help.

The Importance of Community

Here at Mirabilis Collective, our mission extends beyond the development of musical talents. We believe that a strong, supportive community is essential for the well-being of each individual member. A supportive environment fosters not just artistic growth but also personal and emotional growth, giving everyone the opportunity to lead a balanced life.

The Journey of Self-Care: More Than a Catchphrase

In the buzzword-filled world of wellness, 'self-care' has almost become a cliché. But its importance is timeless and universal—taking care of your mental health doesn't end the moment you speak up or seek help. It's an ongoing process that requires deliberate effort. Songwriter and female artist Alicia Keys captured it succinctly: "Self-care is not something you do once and then you're done. It's a continuous journey of learning and growing."

For many, self-care starts with setting boundaries. It’s okay to say no, it's okay to take a break, it's okay to not be perfect all the time. And it’s vital to learn that each of us are enough. Understanding your limits is the first step to not only preserving but also nourishing your emotional and mental well-being.

Self-care techniques can include anything from physical exercises like yoga and meditation, to engaging in activities that give you joy, or simply allowing yourself a moment to breathe. Every individual's journey in self-care is unique, but the goal remains the same: to create a balanced life where mental well-being is valued and maintained.

Final Thoughts: Empathy and Action

As performers, mentors, students, and above all, as human beings, we each have a role to play in the broader dialogue about mental health. The struggle is collective, and so should be the solution. Let’s extend our support, break the barriers of silence, and make mental health a topic as openly discussed as any other in our community.

Take The Step Toward a Healthier You and a Compassionate Community

Let's shatter the weight of silence together. If you're carrying an invisible burden, consider speaking to someone you trust or seek professional help. If you're concerned about a friend, family member, or colleague, reach out and extend your support.

If you're seeking further information or resources on mental well-being, here are some valuable platforms that can assist you:

Sane Australia: sane.org

Beyond Blue: beyondblue.org.au

Head to Health: headtohealth.gov.au

LGBTIQ+ Health Australia: lgbtiqhealth.org.au

Take the first step, be it small or big, in your journey toward mental well-being. Let's foster a world rich not just in art but also in empathy. You're not alone.