Setting the Standard: Change makers Driving Mental Health in Entertainment
By Teresa Yslas Beardsley | Board Member, Event Safety Alliance | CEO & Founder Safety Compliance Services
The entertainment industry, known for its creativity and dynamic energy, also faces unique challenges when it comes to mental health and well-being. In response to high demand from the community, the ESTA Technical Standards Program (TSP) has launched a vital new initiative: a working group dedicated to developing comprehensive guidelines for mental health in the entertainment workplace. This initiative is particularly crucial given the alarming statistics from the CDC, which highlight that the 'Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation' industry has one of the highest suicide rates among all occupations, with the 'Performing Arts, Spectator Sports, and Related Industries' category ranking first for female suicide rates.
The working group’s mission is to create a standard that helps organizations and individuals identify mental health risks related to work organization, the work environment, and social factors, and provides strategies to mitigate these hazards. The ultimate goal is to promote well-being, reduce suicide rates, and improve the overall support structure within our industry.
Why Create a Standard for Mental Health?
A dedicated standard for mental health in the entertainment industry is essential. Such a guideline provides a clear, unified approach to addressing mental health challenges, ensuring that support is systematically integrated into workplace policies rather than being left to chance or inconsistent practices.
The ESTA Technical Standards Program (TSP), a cornerstone for safety and efficiency standards in entertainment technology since 1994, is hosting this working group due to its commitment to addressing the industry's unique needs. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the TSP ensures that standards are developed by experts who understand the specific challenges of the entertainment sector.
Creating a mental health standard will enable proactive measures, consistent support, and a collective effort to address the unique stressors faced by entertainment professionals. This shift from a reactive to a proactive approach will prioritize mental wellness, contributing to a healthier, more supportive work environment and aligning with the TSP's mission to improve industry practices comprehensively.
How Can You Support Well-Being in Entertainment?
ESTA is inviting passionate professionals to join this working group dedicated to advancing workplace wellness. This initiative aims to develop comprehensive strategies that integrate ISO 45003 guidelines, providing a robust framework to enhance mental well-being and address the unique challenges of our field.
By contributing, you’ll help shape effective wellness practices that align with international standards and address specific pressures and conditions. Your involvement will be crucial in creating actionable solutions to improve mental health support, enhance work environments, and drive cultural change.
Learn how to join the working group and contribute to a healthier and more supportive work environment by visiting this link. If you’re not able to join directly, you can still contribute by advocating for these guidelines and raising awareness about their importance. Every bit of involvement, big or small, makes a significant impact.