Advice about Alcohol or Substance Use

The relationship between music creators and substance use is complex and deeply rooted in the unique challenges of the creative industry. Research by Paul Saintilan highlights several factors that can impact both performers and composers:  

• The creative process and its inherent pressures – from conceptualising and composing new works to performing them 
• Managing performance and creative anxiety 
• Balancing emotional challenges with a demanding lifestyle 
• Navigating industry social dynamics and cultural expectations  
• Managing the intersection of public and private identity 

The music business has always involved difficult obstacles. Studies have revealed that both composers and musicians frequently deal with unique demands that could influence their relationship with substances.

In one survey of UK musicians, 45% reported problems with alcohol (Forsyth, Lennox & Emslie 2016). In another study of established European and North American pop and rock stars, they experienced double the mortality rates of the general population and over one quarter of the sample died from drug and alcohol problems (Bellis, et al. 2007). In an early study of writers, artists and musicians, alcohol proved detrimental to creative productivity in 75% of the sample (Ludwig 1990). 

Throughout music history, composers have faced various personal and societal pressures, often turning to available means of coping. Over centuries of classical music, the use of alcohol and drugs as a means of managing emotional pain and creative demands has been recorded. This pattern reflects a deeply human response to challenging circumstances, social isolation, or the intense pressures of composing. 

Studies reveal that composers experience high rates of substance and alcohol use but this isn’t a modern phenomenon. According to historical accounts, composers have long turned to alcohol and other means – often to help with despair, anxiety, and the unique challenges of their profession.

These coping mechanisms remind us that the path of musical creation has always held emotional weight and those who walk it deserve understanding and support rather than criticism for how they might navigate these challenges.

Health risks  

There is no safe level of drinking but more than 14 units (women) and 21 units (men) of alcohol can cause short and long term damage to your health. It is recommended that you have several alcohol free days every week. Alcohol misuse – Risks – NHS 

Similarly, taking drugs is never completely safe and will depend on the type of drug, how often it is taken, the mix, any physical or mental health problems and the safety of the location. What are the dangers from using drugs? – DrugWise  

Addiction is defined as not having control over doing, taking or using something to the point where it could be harmful to you. It  is most commonly associated with gambling, drugs, alcohol and smoking, but it’s possible to be addicted to just about anything, including: 

• work – some people are obsessed with their work to the extent that they become physically exhausted; if your relationship, family and social life are affected and you never take holidays, you may be addicted to your work 
• internet – as computer and mobile phone use has increased, so too have computer and internet addictions; when device use becomes excessive and begins to take priority over other aspects of daily life, including relationships and responsibilities 
• social media – when use of social platforms becomes compulsive and interferes with daily activities, sleep, and in-person connections 
• solvents – when substances such as such as glue, aerosols, petrol or lighter fuel and other volatile materials are used to achieve intoxication, often as a way of coping 
• shopping – when shopping becomes compulsive and is used to achieve temporary emotional relief, often followed by distress and financial difficulties
• sex – sex addiction is when your sexual behaviour feels out of control, is causing you or others distress, or is affecting your life and relationships 
• porn – when viewing pornographic content becomes compulsive, interferes with daily life and relationships, and continues despite negative consequences 
• eating – when relationships with food become compulsive, whether through restriction, bingeing, or other patterns that impact physical and emotional wellbeing 
• gambling – when betting or gaming becomes uncontrollable and continues despite serious financial or personal consequences 

What causes addictions? 

There are lots of reasons why addictions begin. In the case of drugs, alcohol and nicotine, these substances affect the way you feel, both physically and mentally. These feelings can be enjoyable and create a powerful urge to use the substances again. 

Being addicted to something means that not having it causes withdrawal symptoms, or a “comedown”. Because this can be unpleasant, it’s easier to carry on having or doing what you crave, and so the cycle continues.

Often, an addiction gets out of control because you need more and more to satisfy a craving and achieve the “high”. 

How addictions can affect you 

The strain of managing an addiction can seriously damage your work life and relationships.

In the case of substance misuse (for example, drugs and alcohol), an addiction can have serious psychological and physical effects.

Behaviours such as substance misuse can be a way of blocking out difficult issues.

Financial uncertainty can trigger addiction, along with stress and emotional or professional pressure. 

Getting help for addictions 

Alcohol and drug misuse is treatable. You could see your GP for advice or contact an organisation that specialises in helping people with addictions. Music Support has a particular focus in this area. 

Change Live Grow 

Change Live Grow are a national health and social care charity based in the community. They can help you with challenges including drugs and alcohol, housing, justice, health and wellbeing. 

If you want advice about how much you’re drinking and to get advice, follow the link to Change Live Grow’s (CGL) alcohol quiz. 

When you’ve answered the questions, CGL will give you advice about alcohol and what to do next. 

Drug and Alcohol Advice Quizzes 

If you want advice about how much you’re drinking and to get advice, follow the links below to Change Live Grow’s (CGL) alcohol and drug quizzes.

When you’ve answered the questions, CGL will give you advice about alcohol and drugs and what to do next.