The MPA Marks Samaritans Awareness Day: Supporting Mental Wellbeing Through Conversation

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By DEI Team

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Samaritans Awareness Day (24/7): Supporting Mental Wellbeing Through Conversation

Every year on 24 July (24/7), Samaritans Awareness Day highlights that Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for anyone who is struggling to cope. The day encourages people to check in with one another, start meaningful conversations and remind those around them that they do not have to face difficult times alone.

Mental health affects everyone differently, and while many people will experience periods of stress, anxiety or low mood, some individuals may find themselves in crisis. A simple conversation can make a significant difference, helping someone feel heard, understood and less alone.

Within music publishing, professionals often balance commercial deadlines with creative collaboration, managing everything from licensing and royalties to repertoire development, rights management and international partnerships. Like many parts of the wider music industry, these demands can create periods of pressure, making it all the more important that colleagues feel able to check in with one another and ask for support when they need it.

Supporting Wellbeing Across Music Publishing

Samaritans Awareness Day is an important reminder that creating a supportive culture starts with everyday conversations. At the MPA, that commitment continues throughout the year through the BeWELL Network, a dedicated employee network that promotes positive mental health and wellbeing across the music publishing community.

Open to employees of MPA member organisations and allies, the network provides a safe and supportive space to connect with colleagues, share experiences and raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing. Members can also access resources, workshops and events designed to support positive wellbeing across the music publishing community.

If you work for an MPA member organisation and would like to join the BeWELL Network, we’d encourage you to find out more and get involved.

Why Samaritans Awareness Day Matters

Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in the UK. Samaritans exists so that no one has to face these feelings alone, providing confidential, non-judgemental emotional support to anyone experiencing distress, regardless of their circumstances or the reason they choose to reach out.

Samaritans also remind us that we do not need to be mental health professionals to support someone. Often, listening without judgement is one of the most valuable things we can do.

Suicide Prevention and Mental Health

Suicide remains a significant public health issue across the UK. In 2023, 6,069 suicides were registered in England and Wales, with around three-quarters of these deaths being men. The suicide rate reached 11.4 deaths per 100,000 people, the highest recorded since 1999, highlighting the importance of recognising when someone may be struggling and offering support.

The importance of these conversations is also reflected across the wider music industry. According to Music Minds Matter, one in three people working in music struggle with their mental health, highlighting the need to continue creating supportive workplaces where people feel comfortable speaking openly and seeking help when they need it.

Looking Out for Each Other

Many people worry about saying the wrong thing when someone appears to be struggling. Simply taking the time to listen can make a meaningful difference.

Reflecting on the importance of everyday conversations, Laura May, MPA BeWell Champion, says:

“I think the small moments matter most — a colleague noticing you’re quiet, someone asking, ‘how are you, really?’ and meaning it. Samaritans Awareness Day is a good reminder that support doesn’t need to come from experts — it comes from each other. You don’t need all the answers. You just need to listen.”

When checking in with someone, try to give them your full attention and listen without judgement. Allow them to speak openly, avoid interrupting or rushing to offer solutions, and acknowledge what they’re sharing with empathy.

Sometimes, asking “How are you?” twice can encourage a more honest conversation. The first response is often an automatic “I’m fine,” but gently asking again, or following up with “How are you, really?” can give someone the opportunity to pause, reflect and share how they are truly feeling. It is often the second question that opens the door to a more meaningful conversation.

Support doesn’t have to end with one conversation. Checking in again after a few days, asking how they’re doing, or helping them find professional support or wellbeing resources can demonstrate that they are not alone.

Samaritans Awareness Day reminds us that supporting mental wellbeing starts with everyday conversations. Whether that’s checking in with a colleague, exploring the MPA’s BeWell Network, or sharing resources from organisations such as Music Minds Matter and Samaritans, we can all play a part in creating a more supportive music publishing community.

Support and Resources

If you or someone you know needs immediate emotional support, Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 116 123 (UK and ROI) or by visiting www.samaritans.org

 

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