The Sound of Self-Care: Prioritizing Mental Health in the Music Industry
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re taking time to highlight the importance of self-care, emotional well-being, and creating healthy habits both personally and professionally. In fast-paced industries like music and entertainment, prioritizing mental health can often take a back seat, making conversations around balance, burnout, and nervous system regulation more important than ever. We sat down with Claire Cooper, our Legal & Business Affairs Coordinator and a passionate advocate for self-care, to discuss the role music plays in emotional wellness, the small daily practices that help her stay grounded, and why making space for mental health is essential for long-term well-being.
1. How do you use music to support your mental health and emotional well-being?
Music has always been one of the fastest ways for me to shift my emotional state and reconnect with myself. Some days I use upbeat music for energy and motivation during a workout or while driving, and other days I intentionally choose slower, calming music to help regulate anxiety and create a sense of safety and grounding. It can help us process emotions, feel connected, slow down racing thoughts, and even create moments of peace during stressful seasons of life. I also think music can feel very spiritual and comforting, almost like a reminder that we’re not alone in what we’re feeling!
2. What are some self-care practices that help you manage stress during busy or overwhelming periods?
For me, self-care is less about doing something extravagant and more about consistently returning to small habits that help me feel regulated and present. Exercise is a huge one for me because movement helps release stress physically and mentally. I also love simple things like opening the windows for fresh air, driving in silence, stretching while watching TV, dancing to music around my apartment, or petting my cats after a long day. I’ve learned that self-care doesn’t always have to be productive or aesthetic. Sometimes it’s just creating enough space for your mind and body to exhale a little.
3. In a fast-paced industry like music, why do you think it’s important to prioritize mental health and nervous system regulation?
The music industry is incredibly exciting and creative, but it can also be very fast-moving and high-pressure. When we’re constantly “on,” overstimulated, or pushing through stress without slowing down, eventually our nervous system starts responding as if everything is an emergency. Over time, that can lead to burnout, anxiety, emotional exhaustion, and disconnection from ourselves. I think prioritizing mental health is important not only for performance and productivity, but for overall quality of life. When people feel emotionally regulated and supported, they tend to communicate better, think more clearly, and show up more authentically both personally and professionally!
4. What are some early signs that tell you you’re becoming stressed or burned out, and how do you respond to them?
One of the biggest signs for me is when I start feeling mentally overstimulated or emotionally disconnected from myself. I notice I become more reactive, more anxious, and less present. Sometimes I’ll also notice that I’m rushing through my day without actually checking in with how I’m feeling physically or emotionally. When that happens, I try not to judge myself for it. Instead, I focus on regulation before productivity. That might mean going on a walk, listening to calming music, stepping outside for fresh air, or doing a short meditation before bed. I’ve learned that ignoring stress usually amplifies it, while small moments of regulation can make a huge difference.
5. What advice would you give to someone who wants to improve their mental wellness but struggles to make time for self-care?
I would remind people that self-care doesn’t have to look perfect to still be effective. A lot of us think it has to be an hour-long morning routine or a complete lifestyle overhaul, but mental wellness is usually built through smaller, consistent moments throughout the day. Even a few minutes of movement, stepping outside for sunlight and fresh air, releasing a few thoughts down on paper, taking a real lunch break, or slowing down your breathing can help regulate your nervous system. I think the biggest shift is learning to see self-care as something supportive and necessary, not something you have to “earn” after burnout.
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