While October isn’t officially Mental Health Awareness Month—that’s in May—it does feature World Mental Health Day on October 10th. This day is all about raising awareness of mental health issues, promoting advocacy, and enhancing education and support systems globally. It got us reflecting on the importance of caring for your mental health, especially in the entertainment industry, which can be incredibly demanding, competitive, and emotionally taxing. Here are some friendly strategies to help you maintain your mental well-being in this field:

SET BOUNDARIES

Separate personal and professional life : It’s important to have clear boundaries between your work as an actor and your personal life to avoid burnout. Learn to switch off after work. Have hobbies that are not about acting / performing. Maybe even have a space in your home where you practice lines etc and that is the designated space for that ‘work’, meaning when you are not in that space you are not allowed to be ‘working’!

Limit social media exposure : Social media can amplify comparison and self-doubt. Use it mindfully, focusing on positive interactions and taking breaks when needed. Follow accounts that are nourishing and support what you want to do, and do not get to bogged down in what people are posting – Remember, most people only post the good stuff, and that is not real life.

BUILD A SUPPORT NETWORK

Stay connected with loved ones : Maintain close relationships with friends and family who provide emotional support. This is especially important when on a job, as these people keep you grounded and connected to who you really are.

Find a mentor or peer group : Surround yourself with fellow actors who understand the challenges of the industry. Sharing experiences with others can ease feelings of isolation. This is one of the best parts about being a member of iampro – you are never alone!

Consider therapy or counseling : There is no shame in asking for this type of help. If feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, or any emotional struggles do become overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional who specialises in working with creatives or performers.

DEVELOP HEALTHY COPING MECHANISMS

Mindfulness and meditation : Practices like mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can help reduce anxiety and keep you grounded. Check out Insight Timer for some great free meditations.

Physical exercise : Regular exercise helps manage stress, boosts mood, and improves overall mental health. It does not have to be long and arduous. Exercise is as much about enjoyment as it is ‘feeling the burn’ so do something you really love – Dancing, running, climbing, swimming – It is all great at helping you clear your mind.

Creative outlets : Find joy in other creative activities, whether writing, painting, or another artistic pursuit, to take the pressure off acting as your only outlet.

Schedule downtime : It’s important to step back and recharge. Overworking yourself can lead to burnout, so ensure you take regular breaks. Remember the phrase “Time wasted, is not wasted time!”

Sleep well : Quality sleep is essential for mental clarity and emotional balance. Aim for 7-9 hours per night. Try leaving your phone in another room, having a sleepy drink before bed, and journaling to stop any swirling thoughts keeping you up at night.

MANAGE REJECTION AND CRITICISM

Reframe rejection : Rejection is a common part of the acting world. Try to see it as part of the process rather than a reflection of your worth. Remember that rejection, is redirection – And look at it as an opportunity to find something even better suited.

Focus on personal growth : Instead of internalising criticism, use it to fuel improvement. Celebrate small wins and progress rather than always aiming for perfection.

Keep learning : Take classes or workshops to stay engaged and grow as an actor. This can also boost your confidence and help with self-esteem when experiencing rejection. Check out iampro’s class schedule and see where you can add to your skillset.

STAY GROUNDED IN YOUR PASSION

Focus on why you love acting : Remind yourself of the passion that brought you into the industry in the first place. Staying connected to your purpose can help sustain you during tough times. Put it on sticky notes and place them in an area you look at a lot, as a constant reminder of why you love acting – Near the kettle or around a mirror are great spots!

Avoid tying self-worth to success : It’s easy to feel defined by roles or auditions, but remind yourself that your value is not determined by your career alone. You are important as you are, and your value is not defined by the roles you get.

As well as these strategies, there are some fantastic organisations that support mental health in the arts which are well worth checking out. Click on their names to head to their website’s for more information :

ArtsMinds : A resource hub for creative practitioners and performers in the entertainment industry, created by four organizations: BAPAM, Equity, Spotlight, and The Stage.
Wellbeing in the Arts : Offers resources like counseling, coaching, workshops, and mental health first aid training for individuals and businesses, including workshops, talks and seminars.
Be Extra : Be Extra is a resource hub of interesting, fun and easy-to-digest digital resources to help support the mental health and wellbeing of creative minds.
Applause for Thought : Applause for thought offers one-to-one support, talks, workshops and accredited mental health training courses with the aim to empower individuals and organisations within the industry and equip them with the knowledge and tools surrounding mental health.
Odd Arts : Uses theater to improve mental health and wellbeing, and to reduce conflict and inequalities.
Theatre For Life : An arts organization that works with young people from marginalized groups to improve their physical and mental health.
Shout : A free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope.

Looking after your mental health in the acting world is all about being in tune with yourself, leaning on your support system, and making a conscious effort to navigate those emotional highs and lows. So please after yourselves, and don’t forget check in on those around you too.

Have you any tips for looking after your mental health? Leave your comments below!