The Mental Health of Actors

Trigger Warning: This episode will discuss themes of self-harm and suicide. Suicide Prevention Resources:If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please reach out immediately:988: Connects you directly with a mental health professional.1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433): National suicide prevention hotline with trained staff ready to help.Media Links:Website: delvepsych.comInstagram: @delvepsych20YouTube: youtube.com/@DelvePsych20Substack: delvepsych.substack.comParticipants:Hosts: Ali McGarel, Adam FominayaOverview of Big Ideas:The Hidden Cost of Acting: Ali shares her deeply personal experiences navigating mental health challenges while pursuing acting professionally.Identity and Passion: The complexities actors face when their identity and self-worth become intertwined with their professional success.Navigating Rejection: Strategies and emotional truths about handling frequent rejection and maintaining self-esteem in a competitive industry.Comparative Suffering: Exploring the inevitable comparisons and envy actors face, and how to manage these difficult emotions.The Courage to Pivot: Understanding the strength required to step away from a passion when it becomes detrimental to one's mental health.Breakdown of Segments:Delve’s Mission and Services: Introduction to Delve Psychotherapy's therapeutic offerings and current availability.Ali’s Personal Journey: Ali discusses her transition from acting in LA to psychotherapy, highlighting mental health struggles common among actors.Self Harm and Mental Health in Acting: Discussion on the mental health risks in the acting industry, including Ali's experience of losing a fellow actor to suicide.Challenges Unique to Actors: Managing rejection, financial instability, identity crises, and unrealistic expectations.Advice for Current Actors: Practical advice on maintaining mental health, setting realistic expectations, and finding fulfillment outside of professional success.The Decision to Leave Acting: Ali describes the grieving process of leaving the industry, framing it as an empowered, courageous decision rather than a failure.Psychotherapy Group for Actors: Introduction to an upcoming psychotherapy group specifically designed to support actors in Illinois.Relationship Insights: Brief discussion on healthy communication strategies in relationships, emphasizing emotional vulnerability and understanding.References & Further Reading:Brene Brown’s work on vulnerability and resilience.Alfie Kohn’s Punished by Rewards, discussing intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivation.Self-Determination Theory (Deci and Ryan), exploring how external rewards can reduce intrinsic motivation.