Know-howHow to get the most from Mind your head
Why this page exists
Making music is brilliant and it can also be brutal: the knock-backs, the 2am refreshing, the money. You're not on your own. This page points you to the professionals. We're a label, not counsellors, but we'll always help you find the right door.
When to reach out
You don't have to be in crisis to talk to someone. Support Act says you don't need to be in crisis to call its helpline [1]. R U OK? suggests that if someone has felt really down for more than two weeks, it's time to see a health professional [2]. That's a good line for yourself too.
- Sleep, food or motivation has gone sideways for a couple of weeks.
- Every release, gig or comment feels like a verdict on you as a person.
- Money stress is taking over everything.
- You're pulling away from mates or the music you love.
- You're drinking or using more to get through.
Who to call
If money has hit the wall because of illness, injury, mental health or another crisis, Support Act's Crisis Relief Grants can pay bills directly [4]. They're for musicians, managers, crew and music workers who have five years of professional work in the Australian music industry, among other criteria [4]. The helpline is open to everyone, so start there if you're not sure [1].
- Support Act Wellbeing Helpline: 1800 959 500. Free, confidential, 24/7 counselling for anyone working in music and the creative industries in any role, including students and emerging creatives [1]. Up to 12 free sessions per person, and there are dedicated options for LGBTQIA+ people, First Nations creative workers and managers [1].
- Lifeline: 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14, or online chat, all 24/7 [3].
- Emergency: if you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000 [1][3].
How to support a mate
You don't need the right words. You just need to ask and mean it. R U OK? sets out four steps [2]:
- Ask. Stay relaxed and name something specific: "You seem less chatty than usual. How are you going?" If they don't want to talk, don't criticise. Let them know you still care [2].
- Listen. Don't interrupt or rush. Take what they say seriously, sit with silences, and repeat back what you heard [2].
- Encourage action. Ask what has helped before and how you can support them. If they've been really down for more than two weeks, encourage them to see a health professional [2].
- Check in. Set a reminder to follow up in a couple of weeks, or sooner if they're really struggling [2].
If you're worried a mate may be suicidal, contact Lifeline for crisis support, or call 000 if their life is in danger
[2].
Small things that help in the music grind
- Mute the stats app for a week after release.
- Celebrate finishing a song, not just its numbers.
- Keep one creative thing that's just for you, never posted.
- Have a mate you can text "bad day" with no explanation.
- Grab a coffee and a chat in The Room, our no-judgement community space.
From us
If you message us and you're not okay, we'll point you to the right help and check in. Always. Numbers were checked on 26 October 2026. If one doesn't work, search for the service by name.
Do I have to be a professional musician to call Support Act?
No. Anyone working in music or the creative industries in any role can call, including students and emerging creatives. No proof needed
[1].
Does it cost anything?
Support Act's helpline is free
[1].
Is it confidential?
Yes. Support Act says calls are confidential and you can stay anonymous
[1].
What if I'm overseas on tour?
Support Act says you can email for a callback or call +61 (02) 8247 9111
[1].
What do I say to a mate who's struggling?
Start with "Are you OK?" and something specific you've noticed, then listen
[2].
