Mental Health in the Film and TV Industry: Survey Reveals Disturbing Trends

Film and TV Charity Reports Alarming Statistics

A recent survey by the Film and TV Charity has highlighted the concerning mental health struggles faced by industry professionals in the UK film and TV industry. According to the 2024 Looking Glass Survey, with over 4,300 respondents, 35% described their mental health as ‘poor’ or ‘very poor’, marking a 46% increase from 2022.

Increasing Struggle to Cope

The survey reveals a staggering 30% of respondents had experienced suicidal thoughts in the past 12 months, with 32% having taken practical steps to leave the industry altogether. The impact on mental health is profound, with 63% reporting a negative effect on their mental wellbeing and 64% considering leaving the industry in the past year.

Charity Launches Initiative to Address Root Causes

The Film and TV Charity is responding to the crisis by developing a set of pan-industry standards, building on the success of its Whole Picture Toolkit. The Charity is working closely with organizations such as the BBC, Apple TV+, Disney+ UK, and Bafta to drive change. Anna Mischon and Andy Glynne, heads of program delivery and development at Mentally Healthy Productions, will lead the development of these standards.

Mental Health Support Available

For industry professionals struggling with their mental health, the Film and TV Support Line (0800 054 0000) and the Charity’s website offer immediate, free, and confidential support.

Conclusions

The statistics presented by the Film and TV Charity underscore the pressing need for meaningful change in the industry. By building on the successes of initiatives like the Whole Picture Toolkit and collaborating with stakeholders, the industry can begin to address the root causes of this crisis.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: What is the impact of mental health struggles in the film and TV industry?

A: The 2024 Looking Glass Survey reveals that 35% of respondents experience poor mental health, and 30% have suicidal thoughts, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

• Q: How is the Film and TV Charity responding to this crisis?

A: The Charity is developing a set of pan-industry standards to improve mental health in the industry, working with organizations like the BBC, Apple TV+, Disney+ UK, and Bafta.

• Q: What support services are available for industry professionals struggling with mental health?

A: The Film and TV Support Line (0800 054 0000) and the Charity’s website offer immediate, free, and confidential support.