The mental health situation within the UK film and television sector has reached a critical juncture, as reported by the Film and TV Charity through its recent Looking Glass Survey. With the increase in participating respondents, this survey has provided a disturbing insight into the mental state of professionals in this industry. The findings from the latest survey indicate that 35% of 4,300 participants consider their mental health to be “poor” or “very poor,” a sharp uptick from 24% reported in the 2022 survey. This escalation reflects the underlying issues plaguing an already vulnerable workforce.
More shockingly, nearly 30% of those surveyed reported having contemplated suicide, which signifies a troubling trend in mental health crises within this industry. This figure represents a slight rise from the 29% recorded previously. It is worth noting that the sample size of the survey has increased from 2,000 respondents to over 4,300, suggesting that the issue is not only widespread but possibly becoming more pronounced as we gain a clearer picture of the working environment in film and television.
The results of the survey echo longstanding concerns voiced by industry leaders and mental health advocates about the challenges freelancers face. The film and television industry has become increasingly precarious, with many professionals facing periods of unemployment and uncertainty. The slowdown in production, particularly during the pandemic, has undoubtedly contributed to the emotional toll on these workers. Furthermore, tragic incidents such as the suicide of TV producer John Balson, who was involved with Channel 4’s true-crime series In the Footsteps of Killers, serve as stark reminders of the profound struggles that individuals in this profession endure.
The report indicates that only a mere 12% of participants believe their work environment promotes mental well-being. Alarmingly, 63% of those interviewed expressed that their job negatively impacts their mental health. This dichotomy starkly highlights the dissonance between the industry’s expectations and the psychological reality faced by workers. When nearly two-thirds of individuals report detriments to their mental well-being, it raises significant questions about the structural integrity of the film and television industry and suggestions of a deeply ingrained culture of stress and burnout.
The inclination for a mass exodus from the industry has also been witnessed, with 64% of respondents admitting they have seriously considered leaving their jobs—an increase from 60% in the previous year. This indicates a growing trend of disillusionment among workers who may feel unsupported or overburdened by the demands of their roles. The urgency of addressing these mental health challenges cannot be overstated, as the industry risks losing valuable talent and creativity if proactive measures are not taken.
In response to this situation, Marcus Ryder, CEO of the Film and TV Charity, has expressed grave concerns about the ongoing prevalence of poor mental health in the sector. Ryder emphasizes that while some improvements have been made, the rate of change is insufficient and pressing issues remain unaddressed. The findings from the survey reinforce the need for industry stakeholders to prioritize mental health, creating an environment conducive to the well-being of all workers.
In light of these concerning statistics, the Film and TV Charity is actively working on establishing comprehensive industry-wide mental health standards. Steps taken include collaborating with major industry players, such as Apple TV+, BBC, and Disney, to recognize and address these pressing mental health concerns. Engagement with initiatives like the Whole Picture Toolkit, which serves as a guide for creating mentally healthy work environments, has seen a notable uptick. Over 100 companies have adopted this toolkit, with more than 200 specific productions implementing its guidelines.
While these measures signal a positive shift toward acknowledging the significance of mental health in the workplace, continued commitment and adaptability will be required to effect real change. Without a unified and persistent effort to prioritize mental health, the film and television industry may face further declines in morale, productivity, and overall job satisfaction within its workforce. The time for action is now, as both the emotional well-being of industry professionals and the future of the film and television sector itself hinge on the outcomes of these initiatives.