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James Blake

James Blake 

Photo: Lars Niki/Getty Images 

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James Blake On Touring & Mental Health james-blake-how-cope-feelings-isolation-during-touring

James Blake On How To Cope With Feelings Of Isolation During Touring

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The GRAMMY-nominated singer/songwriter provides insight on combatting depression and anxiety that can come from life on tour
Nate Hertweck
MusiCares
Aug 16, 2018 - 4:45 pm

Most musicians dream of life on the road – each day a new town, each night a new audience. But the reality of touring is psychologically demanding. Few artists voice these challenges, though recently singer/songwriter James Blake had the courage to share his struggles with isolation on tour.

James Blake: Talks About His Best New Artist Nomination

Blake participated in a panel titled "You Got This: Managing Suicide Crisis in the Arts Population" at the Performing Arts Medicine Association's annual symposium last month. During the discussion, he opened up about his struggles with mental heath, the detriments of unhealthy eating habits and being overcome by a feeling of isolation despite being surrounded by others.

"Your connection to other people becomes surface level," Blake said of life on tour. These feelings led to depression and "eventual suicidal thoughts." "If you were only in town for one day and someone asked you how you are, you go into the good stuff … which generally doesn't involve how anxious you feel [or] how depressed you feel."

A GRAMMY-nominated artist with devoted fans around the globe, Blake's story is proof that success cannot assuage depression, anxiety or suicidality. If anything, the pressures and demands of success — and the touring that follows — can stunt progress and fuel mental health issues. "I was taken away from my normal life essentially at an age where I was half-formed," Blake said.

https://twitter.com/jamesblake/status/1000228403998425088

Please read. I've wanted to say this for a long time, and now seemed as good a time as any. pic.twitter.com/1fSPt7SJnx

— James Blake (@jamesblake) May 26, 2018

But for Blake, the fight against mental health challenges has been a successful one. He has stood up to say "no" to constant touring, and he's become an advocate for battling depression and suicide by speaking up. In a post on Twitter, he declares, "It is only ever a good thing to talk about what is on your mind."

Blake's simple strategy of communication can work wonders for touring artists, especially males who find themselves feeling isolated and alone on the road. "There is no great victory in machismo and bravado in the end," he wrote. "The road to mental health and happiness, which I feel so passionately about, is paved with honesty."

Blake also dispelled the myth that true creativity requires some form of suffering, sharing his first-hand experience to the contrary.

"There is this myth that you have to be anxious to be creative, that you have to be depressed to be a genius," Blake said. "I can truly say that anxiety has never helped me create. And I've watched it destroy my friends' creative process, too."

Since recent data shows more and more people are battling mental health issues and at risk of suicide, the need for artists such as Blake to tell their stories becomes more and more acute. Music can inspire us and change us when it comes from the heart of another human being. Similarly, stories such as Blake's can remind us we are not alone, no matter how far from home a tour may take us.

"We are the generation that's watched several other generations of musicians turn to drugs and turn to excess and coping mechanisms that have destroyed them," Blake said. "There are so many high-profile people recently who have taken their own lives. So we have a responsibility to talk about it and remove the stigma."

Catching Up On Music News Powered By The Recording Academy Just Got Easier. Have A Google Home Device? "Talk To GRAMMYs"

Avoiding Repetitive Stress Injuries For Musicians

Photo: James Fraher/Redferns

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Avoiding Repetitive Stress Injuries For Musicians play-it-safe-how-musicians-can-avoid-repetitive-stress-injuries

Play It Safe: How Musicians Can Avoid Repetitive Stress Injuries

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Learn ways to stay on the right side of the fine line between building chops musically and breaking down physically
Nate Hertweck
MusiCares
Jul 12, 2018 - 3:04 pm

It's true, jobs of all types put workers at risk for repetitive stress injury — from construction workers to anyone spending a large amount of time typing — but for musicians, the danger is particularly perilous. Neck tension, shoulder and back pain, stiffness in the hand and fingers, you name it! The physically repetitious nature of practice and performance can escalate from even the smallest discomfort into a major problem.

Dave Navarro's Powerful Message Of Hope

How can musicians avoid repetitive stress injury? How can they spot signs of this pesky hazard before it grows into a beast? We've identified a few ways to protect yourself from this common hazard for musicians.

Pay Attention To Technique

Drummers, guitarists, horn players, string players, singers — all musicians should be concerned about using proper technique in order to preserve their skills and live to play another day, so to speak. While these techniques vary from instrument to instrument, as does each individual's own style and interpretation, there are a few constants. For instance, musicians should always make sure their performance strokes are relaxed, not forced. Sure, there are fast and dynamic moments in many songs and styles that employ force, but even the fastest players will tell you their speed comes from smoothness, not tension.

That's why the best way to address RSI is to stop it before it starts by identifying bad posture and harmful habits before the long-term damage is done. The nitty-gritty details of technique deal with taking cues from your body's sensations — such as tension, weight, or effort — and using them to inform your muscular control to reduce tension and increase relaxation while playing.

Stretch It Out

Thought stretching was only for competitive athletes? Think again! The muscles you use to perform are just as important as the ones athletes use to compete, so warming up and stretching are key. Take a look at these essential stretching techniques to get you started.

Stretching and proper care of your body can ensure you're always playing your best. Another way to improve your playing and overall health is to exercise regularly outside of music. Using your larger muscle groups by playing sports, running, rowing, yoga, or others forms of working out can help counterbalance the intense use of smaller muscle groups when you play music. 

Take It Easy

Just as listening to loud music can be damaging to your ears over time, practicing without a break for too long can hurt you in the end. If you have an extended rehearsal, be sure to step out periodically to rest and rejuvenate. If you're on tour, get plenty of sleep and don't over exert yourself in soundcheck or rehearsal. Even if you only play with a garage band on the weekends, try not to cram in three hours of straight practice. Add a few shorter practices during the week to build strength and take regular breaks during your marathon rehearsals.

Also, the stress of performing in front of an audience can also complicate RSI, so musicians can help themselves by finding ways to relax mentally before big performances. Mindfulness and meditation can be powerful tools for bringing your mental state to the stage with you while allowing you to focus on giving your best efforts to serve the music.

Speak Up

Listen to your body when you play, and if you're in pain, see a doctor. It may seem like strength building, soreness or muscle fatigue are part of the process, but serious RSI can be crippling if you let it go too long without treatment. A doctor visit can help you understand your limits and treat RSI symptoms properly.

But you'll need to be very careful with how you treat the pain associated with RSI, as some doctors may not be experienced in dealing with musicians in this manner, so seek a specialist. Musicians should also be careful with any type of pain medication, as it can not only mask the issue instead of treating it.

Learning these precautions may not be as exciting as mastering the "Spider Chord" or the "Purdie Shuffle," but if you want to keep playing, you need to learn how to play safe.

Catching Up On Music News Powered By The Recording Academy Just Got Easier. Have A Google Home Device? "Talk To GRAMMYs"

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Photo: Ulrich Bumgarten/Getty Images

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Suicide Awareness: How Prevention Works statistics-show-suicide-prevention-awareness-urgently-needed

Statistics Show Suicide Prevention Awareness Is Urgently Needed

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The crucial importance of mental health continues to loom large as the latest statistics from CDC show suicide prevention efforts matter now more than ever
Nate Hertweck
MusiCares
Jun 14, 2018 - 1:42 pm

Mental health is a basic human need. Fortunately, there are many resources for staying healthy mentally, and we also know more than ever before about caring for ourselves and spotting someone else at risk of depression or suicide. But the latest statistics on suicide tell us loud and clear we still have much work to be done.

https://twitter.com/800273TALK/status/1005093555340226561

Take the time today to check in with friends and loved ones. Ask them how they're really feeling. And if you're worried that someone you know might be thinking about suicide, here's how & why the 5 steps of #BeThe1To can help. https://t.co/0rhdgVsF9t

— The Lifeline (@800273TALK) June 8, 2018

The Center for Disease Control recently released revealing data showing that nearly every U.S. state saw an increase in suicide rates from 1999–2016, totaling nearly 45,000 lives lost to suicide in 2016. What's more, suicide rates increased more than 30 percent in half of the states during this time period, and more than half of people who died by suicide did not have a known mental health condition.

Thanks to the CDC's Vital Signs monthly reporting program, these shocking statistics were accompanied with valuable information on what the most common circumstances and contributing factors were that lead to these statistical increases. A crisis in the past or upcoming two weeks, relationship problems, substance abuse, physical health problems, and job or financial issues were identified among those with and without identified mental health challenges.

Unfortunately, firearms were the leading method of suicide death during this time period, accounting for 49 percent of overall fatalities.

The CDC also provided some key parameters for suicide prevention, aimed at reversing this tragic trend. It named community groups as an effective way we work together that can help prevent suicide, including public health, private sector, health care, and community based organizations. Through these strength-in-numbers efforts, we can better identify those at risk, provide education on coping and problem-solving, promote safe and supportive environments, and create collaborative social settings to help people feel connected and not alone. Also, linking people at risk to temporary assistance programs and mental and physical healthcare can make a big difference, as can reaching out to those who have lost a friend or loved one to suicide to make sure they have support during their difficult time.

But how do we know if our friends or family members are at risk? The CDC provided five simple steps to identify and assist our loved ones in their time of need.

First, just ask. Dialogue is crucial in assessing if someone needs help. Second, keep them safe while you help or seek help for them. Third, be there for them and make sure they know they have a supportive person in their life who cares. Fourth, help them connect with support resources so they can get the lasting assistance they need. Finally, follow up. Mental health needs to be an ongoing priority for everyone, and sometimes the smallest gesture like hearing from a friend can mean the world.

Above all, everyone should know that help is available and accessible anytime it's needed. If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or visit www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. If you are part of the music community and you require assistance for a mental health-related issue, contact MusiCares toll-free at 1.800.687.4227 (West), 1.877.626.2748 (South) or 1.877.303.6962 (East).

Learn More About MusiCares, The Recording Academy's Health And Human Services Charity

Mental health patient

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Suicide Prevention: Options For Help & Support suicide-prevention-understanding-facts-and-finding-support

Suicide Prevention: Understanding The Facts And Finding Support

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Talking about depression and learning about the warning signs of various mental health issues can make all the difference in saving someone's life
Nate Hertweck
MusiCares
May 24, 2018 - 1:52 pm

We may never know why some of our generations' brightest creative minds choose to take their own lives, but we do know that suicidal thoughts affect a wide range of people, not just those dealing with the pressures of stardom. For the sake of anyone who has succumbed to the most insurmountable mental anguish, we must look at suicide as what it is: a preventable outcome of a treatable illness.

Dave Navarro's Powerful Message Of Hope

Mental health issues leading to suicidal thoughts can be very complex to understand from both internal and external perspectives. After all, the mind is such a personal territory. But even in the shadow of darkness suicide casts on our culture, we can make a difference by shining a light on tangible resources to overcome depression and suicidality.

First, it is important to understand the types of mental illnesses that can potentially lead to suicide deaths.

"Some of the most commons mental health diagnosis associated with suicide deaths are mood disorders like depression, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic disorder, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and substance abuse disorders," says Becky Stoll, LCSW, vice president of crisis & disaster management at Centerstone, a MusiCares partner. "Another common issue associated with suicide is having chronic physical pain." 

Unfortunately, suicide is a global issue. A 2015 study showed suicide was the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. alone, the third leading cause of death for people aged 10–14 and the second leading cause of death for people aged 15–24. In the state of Tennessee alone, one person between the ages of 10–24 is lost to suicide every four days, according to statistics provided by Scott Ridgway, executive director of the Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network. The Tennessee Department of Health's Office of Health Statistics reported there were 1,110 recorded suicide deaths in Tennessee in 2016, a 4 percent increase from the prior year.

These numbers are, and should be, shocking. We've seen some of our music heroes' names in the news — Chris Cornell, Chester Bennington, Avicii — and these statistics prove the problem reaches far beyond the headlines.

While there is no universal solution for mental health issues, there are many options for finding support. It all starts with talking.

"The more we talk about it, everyone can do something. If you have had a mental health problem, talk about it," says clinical psychologist Dr. Joanne Barron. "Help take the stigma away from it."

Speaking of talking, there is a big misconception that people who speak about contemplating suicide are only seeking attention, which is not at all accurate.

"In fact, we know people who end up dying by suicide have often spoken about it with others and given other warning signs," says Stoll. " If someone you know feels comfortable enough to broach the subject of their suicidal thoughts with you then you must take them seriously."

As far as warning signs, being able to spot one could make the difference in saving someone's life.

"Knowing the warning signs of suicidal behavior is key to helping those around us get the assistance they need," says Stoll. "These include talking about wanting to die or not be around anymore — sometimes this can be vague so it is important to ask clarifying questions — making plans for how to kill one's self, securing the means to carry out this plan, giving away possessions, expressing feelings of being a burden to others, withdrawing and being isolative, and expressing hopelessness."     

But where can one turn? Where can they start? One option is to confide in friends or family members to ask for help and support. For many people suffering from depression, this first step can be the hardest, but it can also be the most beneficial.

"Some of the loneliest times in my life have been in rooms full of thousands of people because not one of them knew what was going on inside me," says guitarist Dave Navarro. "Rarely do we pick up the phone at 3 a.m. after a gig and ask for help. … The real challenge is letting people know that it is a great strength to reach out for support,"

Of course, not everyone has a support system in his or her life to turn to. Another valuable option for seeking support can be found in a recent popular song. The GRAMMY-nominated "1-800-273-8255" was released in 2017 by rapper Logic. Featuring Khalid and Alessia Cara, the song addresses head on the struggles of depression and the importance of reaching out for support, which was not an easy topic for Logic to broach in his writing because he himself has suffered from anxiety and depression.

Logic's Suicide Prevention With "1-800-273-8255"

"I was so scared for so long to say that because society has lead me to believe that my anxiety is stupid and shouldn't be talked about, or that suicide, 'Who cares, who's weak enough to kill themselves?' Which is the most terrible, disgusting, ugly thing somebody can say," says Logic. "That's why I decided to write about these topics."

Logic's efforts with "1-800-273-8255" to raise awareness of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline worked. After performing the song on MTV's VMAs, call traffic increased by 50 percent.

"None of us are alone," said GRAMMY-nominated artist Kesha, who introduced the performance. "It takes great courage to show the vulnerable side of being human and we all have that vulnerable side. Whatever you are going through, however dark it may seem, there is an undeniable truth and strength in the fact that you are not alone."

Kesha's words ring true.

"There are very effective treatments today for mental health disorders," says Stoll. "If someone is feeling suicidal they can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline from anywhere in the country. Someone is always there to assist. They can also text the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741."

Finally, music people in need of support can turn to MusiCares. Whether dealing with substance abuse, addiction recovery, financial hardship, or mental health issues, MusiCares is here to help. From online resources such as this recent list of tips for free or low-cost mental health care to over-the-phone support, MusiCares is a safety net for musicians, providing mental health assistance and referrals.

If you are part of the music community and you require assistance for a mental health-related issue, contact MusiCares toll-free at 1.800.687.4227 (West), 1.877.626.2748 (South) or 1.877.303.6962 (East).

Learn More About MusiCares, The Recording Academy's Health And Human Services Charity

opioids bottle

Photo: Tom Kelley/Getty Images

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Opioids: Understanding The Risks truth-about-opioids-how-turn-tide-addiction

The Truth About Opioids: How To Turn The Tide On Addiction

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Some of the most commonly prescribed pain medications can also be the most dangerous — before you begin, first get the facts about opioids
Nate Hertweck
MusiCares
Mar 29, 2018 - 1:04 pm

Understanding the purpose, dangers, and the side effects of any drug is critical before beginning treatment. Such as the case with opioids, a group of drugs commonly used to treat pain and relieve suffering. As these drugs become more and more commonly prescribed — and abused — it's important to arm yourself with a strong understanding of what they are, what they do, and how to manage their use before putting yourself at risk of addiction or overdose.

Dave Navarro's Powerful Message Of Hope

According to a recent piece from Turn The Tide Rx, "Opioids are drugs that work by reducing the intensity of pain signals that reach your brain. These drugs can be helpful for a short time but they have serious risks. Up to 1 out of 4 people receiving long-term opioid therapy in a primary care setting struggles with addiction."

This alarming statistic warrants a closer look at the drugs themselves, and their alternatives, before beginning treatment. Commonly prescribed opioids include Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, Codeine, Morphine, and Fentanyl, and while all of these can be an important part of pain treatment in some circumstances, their short-term benefits must be weighed against the lack of scientific evidence that opioids are the best prescription pathway to properly treat chronic pain.

The more serious risks of using opioids are addiction and overdose. Addiction to these drugs can destroy careers, families, and lives. Overdosing on opioids can even happen by accident due to their effect on the part of the brain that regulates breathing, especially when combined with alcohol or sedative medicines. These types of chemical mixtures are often present in fatal overdoses.

These drugs also come with dangerous side effects including nausea, vomiting, constipation, sleepiness, dizziness, confusion, and increased sensitivity to pain.

Because of these dangers, many seek alternative pain treatments to opioids. And if you are prescribed opioids, you should be careful to manage your pain in a way that keeps you safe. Start with a low dosage and go slow, remembering to never take opioids in greater amounts than prescribed. Avoid taking opioids with alcohol or mixing with any other sedatives, muscle relaxers, sleeping pills or other prescription pain relievers. Be sure to follow up regularly with your doctor, especially if you are taking opioids long-term.

Most importantly, remember that help is only a phone call away. If you or someone you love is in danger of misusing or abusing opioids call your doctor immediately or contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's treatment help line at (800) 662-HELP. If you are a music person in need of help, please call MusiCares at (800) 687-4227.

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Some of the content on this site expresses viewpoints and opinions that are not those of the Recording Academy. Responsibility for the accuracy of information provided in stories not written by or specifically prepared for the Academy lies with the story's original source or writer. Content on this site does not reflect an endorsement or recommendation of any artist or music by the Recording Academy.