Actors: Playing Yourself Is Sometimes the Toughest Role

Acting — yikes. I mean, how much ageism, racism, rejection, objectification, pressure, loneliness, sexual and gender-based harassment and poverty can a person realistically take?

Yet people flock to the entertainment industry despite the well-publicized lives of the 98% — all with the hopes of being the lucky 2%.

And they should — because it’s worth it. When one learns to take control of all those challenges, one can return to the original beautiful passion for the art of acting that attracted them to the industry in the first place. ArtistServices has tools, interventions and battle-tested strategies that help actors keep their heads above water, and their feet firmly on the ground. Know that you can lead an existence void of debilitating anxiety, insecurity and depression. Know that you can lead a life rich in substance, joy, and creative expression (the rest is fleeting).

Following are some mental health tips specific to actors:

  1. Emotional Range: Acting often requires delving into a wide range of emotions. Maintaining good mental health can enhance an actor's ability to access and portray these emotions authentically.

  2. Resilience: The entertainment industry can be highly competitive and unpredictable, leading to frequent rejection and criticism. Actors with robust mental health are better equipped to handle these challenges and bounce back from setbacks.

  3. Creativity: Mental well-being is closely linked to creativity. Actors who are mentally healthy may find it easier to tap into their imagination, explore new characters, and contribute fresh ideas to their work.

  4. Stress Management: The demands of memorizing lines, rehearsing, filming, and promoting projects can be stressful. Actors who prioritize their mental health can develop effective stress management techniques to cope with the pressures of their profession.

  5. Self-Awareness: Maintaining good mental health often involves self-awareness and introspection. Actors who are in tune with their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors may have a deeper understanding of their characters and can deliver more nuanced performances.

  6. Support Systems: Building a strong support network of friends, family, mentors, and mental health professionals can be invaluable for actors. Having people to turn to during challenging times can help maintain mental well-being.

  7. Work-Life Balance: Balancing work commitments with personal life is crucial for mental health. Actors who prioritize self-care, leisure activities, and relationships outside of their career are more likely to experience overall well-being.

  8. Talk to ArtistServices: We offer traditional psychotherapy, and psychedelic-assisted therapy (Ketamine).

ArtistServices is located in the heart of Culver City, a stone’s throw from Sony Pictures. Reach out — we’d love to meet you.