A new national report, 'SOUNDCHECK: Mental Health in the Canadian Music Industry – Final Report,' has just dropped this week, painting a stark picture of the mental health landscape within Canada's vibrant music sector. Released by music industry leadership consultancy Revelios [Mental Health Works] and led by President & Founder Catherine Harrison, M.Psych., the comprehensive study is the first of its kind in Canada to deeply explore these critical issues. The findings are undeniable: a staggering 94% of professionals agree that mental health challenges are widespread across the industry, and 86% admit to personally experiencing such struggles.

The 'SOUNDCHECK' report, which surveyed over 1,250 Canadian music professionals including artists, crew, managers, and venue staff, goes beyond these initial figures to reveal even more alarming statistics. A shocking 53% have felt life wasn't worth living, with 43% having considered taking their own lives at some point. Financial precarity stands out as a primary stressor, cited by 84% of respondents, alongside irregular work schedules and intense performance pressures. Catherine Harrison emphasized the systemic nature of the problem, stating, "This is not about fragility. It's about systems."

The study directly challenges the misconception that mental health issues are solely an "artist problem," underscoring that the crisis affects the entire music ecosystem. Researchers conclude that the industry has reached a critical tipping point, demanding urgent systemic change rather than just individual resilience. As Harrison pointedly put it, regarding the high rates of suicidal ideation, "That's not a footnote. That's a crisis." The report's release on February 25, 2026, marks a pivotal moment for open conversation and actionable solutions within the Canadian music community.