Mental Health & Wellbeing

Life as an actor or in stage management can be extremely intense. The constant hustle, the pressure to perform, and the uncertainty of when the next job will come along can take a toll. We’re here to help you look after your mental health and wellbeing.

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We Understand the Challenges

Approximately 60-70% of actors and stage management reported struggling with their mental health and wellbeing in the past yearThe Big Freelancer Survey – 2024 Freelancers Make Theatre Work. (2024). The Big Freelancer Survey. (Reported in: The Stage. 2025. Burnout and depression: Stage managers warn of mental health crisis. . If you’re feeling it too, know that you’re not alone. Research shows that those working in the performing arts are twice as likely to experience depression as people in other jobsEquity’s 2022 Scoping Review of Mental Health in Performing Arts Clements, L. (2022). Mental health in the performing arts: A scoping review of academic literature. Equity UK. (Referenced in: London Daily. 2025, July 3. People in performing arts are twice as likely to have depression, Equity finds. , nearly two thirds of off-screen professionals have faced mental health issues related to their workFilm and TV Charity’s Looking Glass Survey – 2024 The Film and TV Charity. (2024). The Looking Glass: Mental health in the UK film and TV industry. . We understand the unique pressures of this industry: the constant rejection, the emotional demands, the sporadic work patterns. We also know that life outside of work can throw curveballs, so whatever you’re going through, we’re here to help you access the support you need.

How We Can Help
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COUNSELLING

We have partnered with Wellbeing in the Arts to provide free, confidential counselling sessions delivered by therapists who have a comprehensive understanding of the unique pressures of the industry. 

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GRANTS

If your mental health is impacting your ability to work, we may be able to provide financial support to ease the burden and help you access therapeutic interventions.

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WEBINARS

Join our free online sessions in partnership with BAPAM, where you can learn practical techniques, connect with fellow actors and stage managements, and gain insights from industry professionals.

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INFORMATION & RESOURCES

Explore our collection of helpful resources and information. Please note that our support is not appropriate for all situations, and we are not an emergency service. If you or someone you know needs immediate medical help or urgent support, please find other sources of support here.

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Headshot Michael Curran Dorsano
But most of us live secret lives of great hardship and uncertainty, and to be held and cared for in such a critical time...has been life changing.”
Michael Curran-Dorsano Actor
Read Michael's Story

Useful articles

Research
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Actors' Trust is pleased to support the Injury Prevention Consultancy (IPC) for the launch of the Impact of Injury '26 survey (IOI26).

21 September 2026
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Actors' Trust is deeply saddened to hear of the death of Dame Penelope Keith, former president of the Actors' Benevolent Fund. The following tributes reflect the admiration, affection, and gratitude felt by those who knew and worked with Dame Penelope, remembering not only her remarkable achievements but also the kindness, warmth, and generosity that touched so many lives.

21 September 2026
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Actors' Trust mourn the passing of our Development Board member, Alan Finch

14 September 2026
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Trustee Simon Callow CBE explains why a gift in your will matters to him.

07 September 2026
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Actors' Trust is delighted to introduce to you our 2026 Christmas cards!Available to purchase now.

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We have launched our new 'School Essentials Grant' for actors and stage managers with one or more children of school age.

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Actors' Trust is deeply saddened to hear of the death of Dame Penelope Keith, former president of the Actors' Benevolent Fund.

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Member Trustee Elections 2026

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Were delighted to share that Actors Trust received two major awards at the Transform Awards in March.

10 June 2026
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Gifts in Wills play a vital role in the future of Actors Trust and our ability to expand and broaden the services and resources we can offer actors and stage managers in need. We are most grateful to those who have come forward in the past 12 months to let us know they have left a gift in their Will.

10 June 2026
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Acting for Impact CEO Support General News Press Releases Research

New research from Actors Trust reveals insights into the UKs acting and stage management workforce, highlighting financial insecurity, wellbeing challenges and career realities across stage and screen.

16 March 2026
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