The film and television industry in the UK has long been characterized by creativity and innovation, but beneath the glossy surface lies a deteriorating mental health crisis that requires immediate attention. The most recent Looking Glass Survey conducted by the Film and TV Charity reveals shocking statistics, with 35% of the 4,300 surveyed freelancers labeling their mental health as “poor” or “very poor.” This figure marks a significant increase from the previous survey conducted in 2022, where only 24% expressed similar concerns. Moreover, the notion of despair is palpable as nearly 30% of respondents reported having contemplated suicide. This rise from 29% in the last survey is a disturbing testament to the escalating emotional turmoil experienced by those who work behind the scenes in film and television.
The surge in reported mental health issues is not merely a statistic; it is a reflection of the industry’s current challenges. A combination of factors, including production slowdowns and the weight of personal tragedies, has exacerbated stress levels among workers. The recent suicide of John Balson, a TV producer involved in a true-crime series for Channel 4, has further highlighted the severity of mental health struggles within this sector. Incidents like these prompt an urgent reevaluation of working conditions and the support available to these creative individuals.
The vast increase in survey participants from 2,000 to 4,300 respondents indicates a growing awareness about mental health within the field. However, it also raises a red flag about the deteriorating state of wellbeing amongst these workers. Considering the sheer number of respondents, the findings suggest deep-seated mental health issues that demand serious investigation and intervention.
In a study where only 12% of freelancers felt that the industry was a mentally healthy environment, the implications are alarming. It is clear that a significant portion of the workforce believes that their roles adversely affect their mental health, with 63% admitting that their jobs hinder their emotional wellbeing. Compounding this distress is the fact that 64% of respondents are contemplating leaving the industry altogether—up from 60% just a year prior. These statistics serve as a clarion call, underscoring the urgency for substantial change within the sector.
Marcus Ryder, the CEO of the Film and TV Charity, acknowledges that despite the persistent awareness raised by earlier surveys, the situation has not improved significantly. His remarks underscore a grim reality that the industry’s challenges are not fading and require comprehensive, immediate action.
In light of such disheartening findings, the Film and TV Charity is stepping up efforts to foster a mentally healthier industry atmosphere. They are working towards developing pan-industry standards that prioritize mental health, collaborating with influential entities like Apple TV+, BBC, and Disney for this initiative. Such partnerships could provide a framework that encourages best practices to support mental wellbeing among freelancers.
Additionally, there has been increased engagement with the Whole Picture Toolkit, designed to aid producers in cultivating mentally positive working environments. With over 100 companies and 200 individual productions already implementing these standards, there are signs that the industry is beginning to take meaningful steps towards addressing the mental health crisis.
While the results of the Looking Glass Survey paint a bleak picture, it is crucial to acknowledge that awareness is the starting point for change. The film and television industry must harness this knowledge to implement real solutions that support mental health and foster a culture where individuals feel safe and valued.
Preserving the mental health of those who create, produce, and manage the visual stories that entertain and inspire audiences is not only a moral obligation but a necessity for the sustainability of the industry itself. Without immediate and effective action, the darker aspects of the industry will overshadow its creative brilliance, pushing talented individuals out of a field they love. As surveys reveal the depth of the problem, it is imperative that both industry leaders and workers unite to forge a healthier, more compassionate working environment.