When Music Hurts – A New Report Reveals the Mental Health Crisis Among Musicians

How can a country like Denmark, often ranked among the happiest in the world, be home to a music industry where nearly one in five musicians report feeling unhappy?

That’s the question raised by a new report from the Music Industry Partnership for Sustainable Development. Based on responses from over 1,800 Danish musicians, the report paints a stark picture: many musicians are struggling, not just creatively or financially, but emotionally and mentally.

The numbers are hard to ignore

According to the report:

- 17 percent of musicians say they are unhappy
- 24 percent report general dissatisfaction with life
- 69 percent of musicians under the age of 40 report symptoms of anxiety

These numbers stand in stark contrast to the general population, where only 3 percent report feeling unhappy. This is not a small difference—it’s a glaring problem.

Why are musicians struggling?

The music industry is built on uncertainty. Income is unstable, competition is intense, and the pressure to constantly perform and remain visible is exhausting. Add to that the stress of navigating social media algorithms and the loneliness of freelancing, and it’s no surprise many musicians are emotionally overwhelmed.

Some, like Danish artist Tobias Rahim, have courageously spoken out about mental health. Their voices are vital. This isn’t just about individual vulnerability—it’s a structural issue affecting the entire creative ecosystem.

What can be done?

This report is just a first step. It will be followed by workshops, dialogues, and actionable recommendations. But change cannot stop at conversations.

We need to build a music culture that prioritizes well-being, not just output. That means creating spaces for connection, tools for organization and support, and a shift in how we value artists as people—not just performers.

Where Beatnickel stands

At Beatnickel, we’re not just building tools for gigs and gear. We’re building community. We believe that music should bring people together, not isolate them. Musicians shouldn’t have to suffer for their art. They should be able to thrive through it.

We want to be part of a movement that restores balance to the music world—where well-being and sustainability go hand in hand with creativity and passion.