Study: More than 70% of musicians suffer anxiety and panic attacks

The Stage, UK - More than 70% of musicians have experienced anxiety and panic attacks, the largest ever survey into mental health issues in the profession suggests.

Professionals working in the music industry, including those in theatre, may also be up to three times more likely to suffer from depression than the general public, according to the Help Musicians UK survey results.

Charity Help Musicians UK commissioned the research, which has been conducted by the University of Westminster, earlier this year as part of its Music and Depression campaign.

It found that, of those that responded, 71% had experienced anxiety and panic attacks, while 65% reported that they had suffered from depression.

A similar survey of more than 550 musicians last year suggested nearly 60% of professional musicians had suffered from depression or other psychological issues.