Behind the Scenes Announces Remarkable Response to Mental Health Survey

Behind the Scene issued this statement: "Behind the Scenes announces that its recent 'Survey to Assist in the Development of a Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Initiative in the Entertainment Industry' received an incredible response from the industry, with over 3,300 people completing the survey. We are humbled by the amazing number of people who shared their stories with us about personal challenges and struggles or those of friends and family.

The members of the BTS Mental Health Initiative Steering Committee have reached out directly to thank those participants for whom we had contact information, but we want to make sure that everyone who took the survey knows how appreciative we are of their participation.

The information provided is invaluable as we begin the development of this initiative. Because so many people responded with such a wealth of information, it is going to take us a little longer than expected to work our way through the responses. We want to be sure we understand the issues industry members face and the obstacles that might prevent them or those they care about from seeking and utilizing mental health resources.

An initial look at the survey results confirmed what many already knew -- that the long hours, pressures of deadlines, lack of resources, and uncertainty of employment have taken a very hard toll on our industry. These affect not only mental health, but physical health as well, and impact relationships with family and friends. Unsurprisingly, over 90% of respondents have experienced anxiety while over 80% have suffered from depression.

What is also apparent from the responses, and very encouraging, is that many individuals want to step up and help colleagues they feel are struggling but simply don't know how and are very concerned about making things worse. Our goal is to provide information and resources that will give industry members the confidence to act.

If you did not participate in the survey but would like to be kept informed of the initiative's progress or participate in future surveys, please email mh@btshelp.org."