The music biz can’t wait for a crisis to focus on mental health; it needs to act now.
The music industry has often glorified burnout, celebrating the long nights, non-stop touring, and the blurred lines between personal and professional life. However, in a recent episode of The Blinding Talent Music Industry Podcast, Lauren Reading-Gloversmith, a former publicist turned psychotherapist, emphasizes that support for mental health shouldn’t be a last resort but a constant practice.
Reading-Gloversmith brings a wealth of experience from her years as an artist manager and music publicist. She previously ran campaigns for over 100 music releases through Inception Press, becoming intimately familiar with the pressures artists face. This background informs her perspective as she now works as a person-centred experiential counselor, helping individuals navigate their mental health journeys.
Reflecting on her teenage years immersed in the local music scene, she describes the transition from a monochrome experience to one rich in color, shaped by the vibrant creativity around her. While this DIY ethos has empowered many in the industry, it can also lead to a reluctance to seek help when needed.
During her discussion with Blinding Talent founder Mark Adams, Reading-Gloversmith redefines therapy not merely as a reaction to crises but as a continuous process of care. She compares mental wellness to nurturing a garden—requiring regular attention rather than just intervention in times of trouble.
The episode covers various contemporary issues affecting creatives today, including the influence of social media and technology. While these platforms can foster connection and visibility, they may also heighten anxiety and self-scrutiny. Reading-Gloversmith acknowledges that while AI could play a role in supporting mental health, it can never substitute the necessity of human connection and accountability.
Now operating her private practice, Speak To Lauren, she focuses on assisting creatives and individuals in exploring their identities, dealing with change, and understanding neurodivergence. Her aim is to provide a supportive environment that transcends metrics, output, and performance.
“The more openly we talk about mental health, especially within creative industries, the more we reduce stigma and remind people that everyone is worthy of support,” Reading-Gloversmith states, reinforcing the importance of ongoing mental health dialogue.