CMA contributes to mental health programs

Wednesday, January 22, 2025 – The Country Music Association is investing $600,000 to help sustain six music industry-affiliated organizations operating in the mental health space.

Amber Health, Backline, ECCHO Live (formerly Touring Career Workshop), Music Health Alliance, MusiCares, and Porter's Call will each receive $100,000 to strengthen infrastructure needs as they work to meet the growing demand for mental health resources.

"We strongly believe in supporting the heart of our industry, our people," said Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. "This investment demonstrates CMA's commitment to addressing the growing demand for mental health resources within our business, whether that means counseling, healthcare advocacy, financial guidance, substance abuse care, disaster relief or even basic living needs. We've seen firsthand the devastation and emotional impact caused by the recent Los Angeles wildfires and the catastrophic flooding brought on by hurricanes in parts of North Carolina, Tennessee and Florida a few months ago."

"The organizations we've partnered with are on the front lines of all aspects of mental health, and by partnering with each of them, we're doing our part to support the vital work they do every day. Our hope is that this not only provides meaningful support but also sparks broader awareness and action around sustaining mental health resources in our format. Together, we are shaping an industry that prioritizes health, humanity, and creativity, ensuring that the business can continue to flourish without compromising the well-being of its people."

In 2019, Amber Health's research team conducted the Touring Health and Wellness Survey, which gathered vital insights from over 1,400 touring professionals. It highlighted the prevalence of key mental health outcomes and uncovered the factors impacting mental and physical health, thereby establishing critical baseline data in an under-researched population. The results found:
34 percent reported suffering from clinical levels of depression vs. 7% for the general population
74 percent reported that touring strained their relationships
26 percent reported serious suicidal ideation (either a previous suicide attempt or considering suicide within the past year)
45 percent reported drinking alcohol regularly
58 percent reported having lost a tour colleague to suicide
17 percent reported attending therapy even monthly (or more often) Today, CMA launched its mental health hub, serving as a comprehensive portal for industry members and offering information on accessing mental health and wellness support through the six partner organizations. Whether you know exactly what you're seeking, or you need guidance to find the best resources for yourself or others, the platform is a centralized tool that empowers music professionals to access tailored mental health and wellness resources with ease.