Mental Health: As Important as Physical Wellness

Live events are powered by people who are creative, committed and often running on adrenaline. Behind every seamless on-sale, spectacular show and memorable audience experience is a team of professionals who juggles invisible pressures to make it all look effortless. But what happens when the pressure mounts?

As we continue to observe Mental Health Awareness Month in May in the United States and Canada, and from May 12–18 in the United Kingdom, it is a good time to ask a fundamental question: What if we treated our mental well-being with the same urgency, care and respect as our physical health? The answer could redefine how we work and thrive in an industry built on connection, emotion and human energy.

“We hear a lot about physical health — eating right, exercising [and] going to the doctor — but what about mental health? Mental health is a huge part of our overall well-being, and it’s time we all started treating it that way,” said the National Council for Mental Wellbeing in early May, urging everyone to prioritize their minds as much as their bodies during Mental Health Awareness Month and beyond.

The concept of “parity of esteem” emphasizes that mental and physical health should be given equal priority. While it is not universally enshrined in law, the principle has gained increasing attention in healthcare systems worldwide. It is an important reminder that emotional and psychological well-being deserve the same respect, resources and care as physical injuries or illnesses.

Consider this: When someone breaks a leg, we don’t expect them to simply "tough it out." We provide the necessary medical care, rest and healing time. Yet challenges like stress, anxiety, depression and burnout are still too often hidden, overlooked, minimized or endured in silence. Though just as real as physical ailments, these invisible struggles can go unaddressed until they become overwhelming.

There is ample evidence that untreated mental health conditions can lead to real physical consequences. Studies show that chronic stress can elevate blood pressure, lead to fatigue, and trigger digestive issues. Research also reveals that neglected mental well-being can weaken the immune system, leading to long-term illness and increased vulnerability to physical health problems.

“What if we treated our mental well-being with the same urgency, care and respect as our physical health?”

So, what can you do to support yourself and your mental health? Here are five actionable steps that can make a difference:

Start with small, proactive shifts. While some stress may be inevitable in live events, burnout doesn’t have to be. Establish a consistent daily routine even if you can’t do everything at a prescribed time: Get enough sleep, take breaks, eat well, stay hydrated, and move your body. Even stepping outside for fresh air between tasks can help reset your mind. Building in short pauses to breathe, stretch or escape screens can give your brain and body the reset they need. And sometimes, the healthiest thing you can do is say “no” when your schedule overflows, “yes” to support when it is offered, and speak up when you need help.

To illustrate this, consider American gymnast Simone Biles, who made headlines during the Tokyo Olympics when she withdrew from competition after experiencing the “twisties”, a dangerous mid-air loss of orientation that can be triggered by stress. The moment was a powerful reminder that mental health is as crucial as physical readiness. By stepping back, Biles prioritized her well-being over medals. She put in the work, sought therapy, and later returned to Paris 2024 as what she called “the best version of myself.” This month, Biles further elevated the conversation around mental health, telling TIME magazine: “You are the strongest you can ever be when you’re vulnerable enough to say, ‘Listen, I need help.’”
Recognize that creating a culture of mental wellness is a shared responsibility, which includes everyone from leadership to front-line staff. While organizations must lead the way by providing resources like employee assistance programs (EAPs), mental health days and burnout training for managers, every team member has a role to play. This includes supporting colleagues, helping reduce stigma, or recognizing when to seek help. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Just as no one should lift heavy equipment without proper tools or training, no one should carry emotional weight without the support they need.
Foster a culture of openness. When leaders and colleagues talk openly about stress, balance or seeking therapy, it chips away at the stigma that can still surround mental health. These conversations do not require perfection; they need empathy. Simply checking in with a teammate, listening without judgment, or sharing a helpful resource can make a difference. Just as importantly, people who are struggling need to feel safe and supported enough to speak up. When openness becomes the norm, asking for help becomes easier, and no one feels they have to suffer in silence.

The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) reports that despite increasing awareness of mental health, many individuals still hide their struggles due to fear of judgment, discrimination or social exclusion. In fact, 60% of people experiencing mental health challenges avoid seeking help because they fear being labeled.

"When people feel they need to hide a mental illness … they are less likely to seek help, perpetuating a cycle of isolation and poor mental health,” Dr. Leyna Lowe, National Senior Research and Policy Analyst, CMHA National, said. “That’s why it’s so important to have open and honest conversations about mental health in a safe and supportive environment so people can get the help they need when they need it without judgment.”
Make use of digital tools. Today, countless apps and platforms make supporting mental health more accessible than ever. From mindfulness apps like Headspace and Calm, to text-based therapy services and virtual counseling, to national and local helplines, support is literally at our fingertips. The key is to normalize using these tools, not just in moments of crisis, but as part of everyday self-care and emotional maintenance. Whether it’s taking a moment to meditate or reaching out for virtual therapy, making these tools part of your routine can help prevent stress from building up.
Prioritize mental health to benefit yourself and your workplace. Ultimately, this is not just a personal act of investing in your inner health; it is a professional one, too. When we take care of our minds, we are better equipped to handle the demands of our work, make thoughtful decisions, and collaborate effectively with others. A workforce supporting mental well-being is more resilient, productive and compassionate, and investing in mental health is a long-term strategy for personal success and organizational strength.

Mental health is not a luxury or a side conversation; it is central to how we live and work. Just as we invest in technology, planning, and production to ensure a successful show, we must also invest in our emotional resilience and well-being. By normalizing mental health conversations, providing accessible resources, and supporting one another without judgment, we can create a culture in live event and entertainment ticketing where no one feels they have to struggle in silence. For the curtain may rise and fall, but the people behind it deserve support every step of the way.