Mental health is hard for musicians during a pandemic is tough.  Mental health is something Bethany Bultman, co-founder and president of New Orleans Musicians Clinic & Assistance Foundation (NOMC & AF) has always thought was important.  

“As an ethno-cultural anthropologist, journalist, author and filmmaker it was a bitter irony that I was paid handsomely to document the tragedy of cultural icons who died in poverty. It was appalling to me that New Orleans was so rich in culture, the birthplace of the USA’s only indigenous art form — and was an early grave. My husband, Johann, and I strive to change that,” says Bultman.

Bultman understands the ways in which mental health affects musicians, regardless. “Even without a pandemic. there is hemlock flowing in the creative juices of musicians. Music is a calling, a passion, a vocation, a purpose… when that is taken away it often triggers anguish and self harm.”

OffBeat asked the mental health advocate for a list of coping mechanisms that musicians can use to improve their mental health during this difficult time. 

Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can either induce depression or add to depression and anxiety that is already there. Even though drinking is a staple of New Orleans culture, now may not be the best time to indulge for your mental health. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, alcohol misuse is already a public health concern in the United States, and alcohol has the potential to further complicate the COVID-19 pandemic in multiple ways.

Uplift yourself through simple acts of kindness. Altruism is a great healer. Sometimes those struggling with depression can find themselves feeling down and lethargic. Getting involved with volunteer programs and interacting (in a safe, socially distanced way!) with others can help. Organizations like Son of a Saint are always looking for volunteers!

Avoid social media. Comparison is the thief of joy. It can be hard to remember that many people only highlight the positive aspects of their lives on social media apps. Take significant time away from these kind of apps and do something distracting like read a book or watch a movie.

Make a happy playlist. Curating a list of songs that make you feel happy and energized is a pre-emptive step you can take towards fighting the blues. 

For more information on resources available to musicians in New Orleans, visit here.