Navigating the Mental Health Pressures of an Acting Career: The Importance of Therapy and Emotional Support
By Sally Baker, Senior Therapist for Actors
Being an actor or creative performer brings immense challenges. The constant auditions, instability of work, and entwining of self-worth with success impacts mental health. Rates of anxiety, depression and addiction tend to run high among actors. As a therapist with a background in film and television production who supports actors and performing artists, I understand the intense demands you face. My goal is to provide a judgment-free space for actors to unpack emotional struggles unique to their field and develop resilience.
The Sting of Constant Audition Rejection for Actors
A major issue actors in therapy cite is imposter syndrome - feeling like a fraud and fearing being "found out." Auditions inevitably lead to frequent rejection, which can spur distorted thoughts like “I’m not good enough” and “I'll never make it." I help actors separate self-worth from achievements. We also explore the arbitrary nature of casting that is out of your control.
Battling Actor Self-Sabotage
Performers often self-sabotage as well. Some quit auditioning due to anticipated disappointment. Others deliberately self-sabotage by not fully preparing to avoid hurt when cut. In therapy, we identify root causes of self-defeat, often perfectionism - the belief their work is never good enough. Refocusing on the joy of performing helps motivation.
Managing Actor Audition Anxiety
Audition anxiety is very common and can be crippling. In therapy for actors, we explore relaxation techniques, visualising success, and channeling nerves positively.
Living in the Present, Not the Uncertain Acting Future
The instability of an acting career causes many to fixate on the uncertain future. I help actors anchor in the present moment and control what they can now – honing their craft and making industry connections. Enjoying the acting process generates gratitude.
Achieving Work-Life Balance and Sustaining Relationships
Acting often requires long and irregular hours which can impact personal relationships. I help actors evaluate their priorities and set boundaries around work to maintain a healthy work-life balance. We discuss the importance of making time for loved ones, even when busy, to sustain those connections. Actors may miss out on social events, so I encourage intentional scheduling of quality time with friends and family. By nurturing relationships outside of work, actors have a solid support system and fuller life beyond acting. This helps manage stress and prevents burnout.
Therapy Provides Crucial Support for Actor Mental Health
Pursuing acting brings inevitable pressure. My aim as a therapist is to offer actors a nurturing space to gain insight into mental traps, build resilience, and sustain well-being. With compassionate support, validation, and tools, actors can stay grounded amidst challenges as they follow their dreams. The key is balance - accepting acting's demands, while knowing their worth beyond achievements. My door is always open for actors needing mental health support.
