Backline Launches Mental Health Toolkit for Dance Music Community: ‘Seeking Help Is Not Something to Be Ashamed Of’

Late nights. Early mornings. Drugs. Booze. Constant touring. While working in dance music offers its own distinct pleasures, it also comes with these distinct challenges.

Now, mental health and wellness nonprofit Backline has launched a mental health toolkit made specifically for dance artists and other professionals, particularly those who tour. Available for free through the Backline website, the guide offers detailed advice on packing for tour, preparing to be away from loved ones, supporting one’s immune system while on the road, hearing health, sleep optimization, venue safety, substance and much more.

Access the Backline EDM Mental Health Toolkit here.

“Music is therapeutic, but in live electronic it’s also a lot of late nights, early mornings, sets until sunrise and then flying to the next city,” Backline co-founder and executive director Hilary Gleason says in a statement. “Backline is committed to taking care of the artists and community who are so generous with their time and talent, and we designed these tools to meet the EDM scene where they are with specific resources for their unique needs.”

“Seeking help is not something to be ashamed of,” dance legend Armin van Buuren is quoted within the guide itself. “The most important thing is to get rid of the shame. The cave you fear holds the treasure you seek. Ultimately, you can’t escape yourself.”

“We see firsthand how demanding this space can be,” adds LP Giobbi, “and tools like this are essential for empowering artists and industry professionals to look after themselves and each other.”

Backline was founded by Gleason in 2019 as a resource to offer support and help for those across the industry. Most recently, the organization created a 24/7 Mental Health and Crisis Support Line that launched in January. The nonprofit also offers one-on-one case management connecting individuals to vetted providers and wellness resources such as mindfulness and yoga.

The organization reports that since 2019, it has invested $3.5 million into mental health and wellness in the music industry and served 84,000 people.

This article was first published by Billboard U.S.