Touring can take musicians to isolating, anxious extremes. Access to therapy on the road is a vital support
I know from our early days how high-pressure road life can be. While big tours often hire therapists, grassroots acts can’t afford it. I’m pleased to back a new scheme that aims to change that
TL;DR
- Early touring life can be high-pressure, isolating, and anxiety-inducing, especially for grassroots musicians without access to support systems.
- Philip Selway experienced impostor syndrome and performance issues due to the intense environment of early Radiohead tours.
- Larger tours now have access to mental health support through initiatives like the Music Industry Therapist Collective (MITC).
- The new Pay It Forward Fund, supported by Selway, aims to provide mental health services for musicians and crews on smaller tours.
- The fund offers financial backing for practitioners over three years, providing occupational health, mental health education, and pastoral care.
- Selway's personal experience with the Samaritans underscores the importance of accessible mental health support.