The mental health crisis in the UK film and TV industry continues to worsen, with a recent survey highlighting alarming statistics. According to a report by the Film and TV Charity, the sector is “reaching a breaking point” as a result of intense workloads and a lack of support for mental health issues. The charity’s research has unveiled that over half 58% of those working in the industry have experienced mental health issues, a stark increase from previous years.

One of the major factors contributing to this crisis is the “pressure-cooker environment” within the industry. With the growing demand for content and the rapid pace of production, many professionals feel overwhelmed by their workloads. The report states that “long working hours, tight deadlines, and an increasingly competitive landscape” heighten the issue.

The charity also emphasizes the need for urgent action, pointing out that “without systemic changes, the mental health of UK film and TV workers will continue to deteriorate.” They are calling for better mental health resources and for companies to prioritize well-being as much as they profit.

Moreover, the financial instability faced by freelancers, who make up a significant portion of the workforce, has also contributed to the worsening of mental health conditions. As noted in the report, “financial uncertainty” is a major stressor, leaving many feeling isolated and unsupported.

This deepening crisis highlights the urgent need for change, with the charity urging stakeholders to address the structural issues within the industry to prevent further harm to its workforce.