Healthy Singer Challenge: Mental Health

This week in the Healthy Singer Challenge, we’re focusing on the crucial role of mental health in supporting vocal performance and artistic expression. Singing isn’t just a physical act—it’s an emotional and psychological journey. Taking care of your mental health allows you to perform with confidence, clarity, and authenticity.

The Connection Between Mental Health and Vocal Performance

In "The Emotionally Prepared Singer" by Gwendolyn Walker and Cody Commander, the authors emphasize the psychological challenges performers face, including anxiety, rejection, and self-doubt. These mental health struggles can lead to physical tension, impaired breath control, and reduced vocal performance. Addressing mental well-being is as essential as developing technique.

Key insights include:

• Confidence is Key: A lack of confidence undermines vocal ability. Building confidence requires mindfulness and positive reinforcement
• Managing Anxiety: Performance anxiety affects both mental clarity and physical readiness. Strategies such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and positive self-talk can help reduce its impact.
• Cultivating Resilience: The performing arts can be emotionally taxing, with cycles of auditions and rejection. Building resilience through self-awareness and goal-setting helps singers overcome these challenges

This Week’s Challenge: Prioritize Mental Health

1. Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness exercises into your daily routine to stay present and focused. For example, spend five minutes a day in quiet reflection or guided meditation.
2. Reframe Negative Thoughts: Replace self-critical or “dead-end thinking” with constructive questions like, “What can I learn from this?” or “How can I grow from this experience?”
3. Set Micro-Goals: Break down larger aspirations into achievable steps. Instead of focusing on landing a lead role, commit to attending three auditions this month or perfecting a challenging song.
4. Create a Support System: Share your thoughts and experiences with trusted friends, teachers, or mental health professionals to help manage stress and stay grounded.

Reflect and Share

How does focusing on mental health impact your vocal performance and emotional resilience? What strategies have helped you overcome performance anxiety or build confidence? Share your experiences and tips with the community to inspire others on their journey to vocal and mental wellness.

Let’s embrace the holistic nature of singing by prioritizing not just our voices but also our minds. Together, we’ll cultivate the emotional strength needed to thrive in both life and performance!

For a deeper dive, download and read the attached article.

For some inspiration, check out this video from tenor, Michele Angelini.