For rockers The Struts, finding ways to cope with their own mental health struggles while on the road has become a mission itself as they look to bring the tools they have found most rewarding to larger audiences in need of support.
LISTEN NOW: I'm Listening with The Struts
"As far as prioritizing my mental health on the road, I've been developing a program that's gonna come out in 2023 that's kind of geared towards this, and building toolkits for artists on the road," The Struts' Jed Elliott told us in the Hard Rock Artist Lounge backstage at Audacy Beach Festival this year.
"A lot of those tools are implemented and have done already with touring. I think because we've been touring for ten years," Elliott continues, "so there are time when everybody's found what works for them. As well, if, for example, one of us is in our book for a couple of hours that day or goes for a long walk, that's tools, just some examples along with some other things in carving out our path."
"I'm finding it's different for everybody as well, from chatting with a lot of other artists," Jed adds. "I think a lot of people conjure up their own mechanisms and tools... but I'm very excited for next year to bring some more stuff forward from my experience in working with another fantastic coach in that space."
"When we first came to America, I really struggled with my mental health... like when we were on radio shows I would get really bad anxiety," guitarist Adam Slack admits. "So, I went and had therapy on the first tour that we did... that helped me out in a big way. Then I met someone in the UK, back home... so when I would go on tour I can go on Zoom and talk to my therapist back in England. I think, if there's any advice, there's no shame. I was terrified when I first went to talk to someone... and it was the best thing I ever did. That feeling of not being alone helped so much."
Listen to Audacy's I'm Listening Mental Health Mix
Audacy's I’m Listening initiative aims to encourage those who are dealing with mental health issues to understand they are not alone. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or anxiety, know that someone is always there. Additionally, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 988. Find a full list of additional resources here.
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