THE CLIMB

The film and television industry is often associated with glamour, red carpets, and star-studded events. But behind the scenes, the crews who bring these productions to life experience a vastly different reality. The long hours, intense pressure, and instability of working on “gigs” instead of having steady employment can take a significant toll on mental health. Crews work tirelessly to bring stories to the screen, yet face a unique set of challenges that can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout. Understanding the demands of this lifestyle is crucial, as is providing resources for mental health support that can sustain and improve the quality of life for these dedicated professionals.

Our office is in the community where Trilith Studios operates their productions in Fayetteville, GA. Our Founder and CEO, Adam Glendye LPC, CPCS and his wife live and own other businesses in this studio community so our clinic is deeply rooted in the film and television community. Our involvement in the community gives us a unique ability to understanding the demands of your industry.

The Long Hours and Intense Workload

In the world of film and television production, long days are the norm. Crew members often work 12 to 16 hours a day, six days a week. These demanding schedules can stretch on for months, especially on major productions. The workload is relentless, with little time to rest between projects, leading to a cycle of physical and mental fatigue. The long hours not only impact sleep but also limit time for self-care, exercise, and social activities, essential components of mental well-being. When work becomes all-consuming, anxiety and stress are likely to follow, especially for crew members who feel they must always be “on” and ready to perform.

Time Away from Family

The travel required in film and TV production means spending long periods away from loved ones, which can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection. Crew members might miss important family events, milestones, and the comfort of home, as they move from set to set. The strain this places on family life is significant, often creating a disconnect that can lead to stress, guilt, and even relationship challenges. For parents in the industry, the thought of missing out on their children’s lives can be particularly distressing, contributing to anxiety about balancing career and family responsibilities.

The Gig Economy: A Cycle of Uncertainty

Unlike many other industries, crew members often work on a gig basis rather than in full-time, stable employment. They may move from project to project, with weeks or months of work followed by unpredictable gaps in between. This irregularity creates a cycle of financial uncertainty and job insecurity. Many professionals in the industry live in a constant state of flux, wondering when and where their next job will come. This unpredictability can amplify anxiety and stress, as each gig could be the last for a while, leaving workers feeling uncertain about their financial future and career stability.

Labor Disputes and Industry Challenges

In recent years, labor disputes have brought attention to the demanding conditions faced by production crews. From low wages to long hours, these disputes highlight issues that can leave crew members feeling undervalued and overworked. The threat of strikes or other disruptions creates additional stress, as industry health and worker conditions become increasingly precarious. Crew members may experience anxiety over whether their rights and needs will be addressed, while worrying about the long-term viability of their careers in an industry that sometimes feels resistant to change.

The Uncertain Health of the Industry

Film and television production can be a high-risk career path. The industry itself is vulnerable to economic downturns, shifting trends, and technological changes that impact the demand for traditional production roles. With streaming services changing the way content is consumed and economic shifts impacting budgets, production can often feel like it’s on shaky ground. Crew members may experience heightened anxiety and stress as they grapple with an industry that can change rapidly. The uncertainty about how long their skills will be relevant and whether there will continue to be opportunities for work can add an additional layer of worry.

Coping with the Stress and Anxiety of Production Work

While these challenges can feel overwhelming, there are ways to manage the unique pressures of working in the film and television industry. Here are some strategies that can help crew members mitigate the stress and anxiety associated with their work.

1. Prioritize Sleep and Self-Care
   Despite the long hours, finding small ways to incorporate self-care into a daily routine can make a difference. Prioritizing sleep, even if only for a few hours, can help with energy levels and mental clarity. Additionally, engaging in brief moments of relaxation, like deep breathing exercises or a quick walk, can be beneficial during long shoots.
2. Maintain Connection with Family and Friends
   Staying in touch with loved ones can be a valuable anchor. Regular calls, video chats, or sending quick messages can help maintain a connection with family, even while on location. Making time for relationships, no matter how small, is essential to feeling supported and staying mentally grounded.
3. Establish Financial Security
   Given the gig nature of work, creating a financial safety net can alleviate some stress. Establishing savings or a backup fund, even if small, can provide peace of mind during gaps between jobs. Learning about budgeting and financial planning may offer a sense of security in an otherwise unpredictable field.
4. Limit Alcohol and Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms
   The culture of celebrating with drinks after long hours can be tempting, but it’s important to find alternative ways to unwind. Relying on alcohol or other substances to cope can lead to long-term health issues and compound stress. Consider healthy outlets like exercise, journaling, or connecting with fellow crew members for mutual support.
5. Set Boundaries on Job Expectations
   It’s challenging to set boundaries in a demanding field, but learning to say “no” when needed can prevent burnout. Setting realistic expectations, even if only occasionally, can provide a much-needed break and a sense of control. Advocating for fair treatment within the industry can also help create a culture where boundaries are respected.
6. Consider Counseling for Long-Term Support
   Talking with a counselor who understands the unique pressures of production work can provide a safe space to explore these challenges. Counseling can offer tools for managing stress, processing emotions, and finding balance between work and personal life. Therapists can also help identify coping skills tailored to the lifestyle of a film or TV crew member.

Finding Support and Prioritizing Well-Being

The demands of working in film and television production are unique, intense, and often unrelenting. For crew members, the impacts of long hours, time away from family, the gig economy, and industry uncertainties can lead to high levels of stress, anxiety, and burnout. Recognizing these challenges and finding ways to address them is essential for anyone who wants to sustain a career in the industry without sacrificing their well-being.

The film and television industry relies on the hard work and dedication of its crews, yet often lacks the resources to support them in turn. Whether through personal strategies or seeking professional support, it’s vital for crew members to prioritize their mental health. The more the industry and its workers acknowledge and address these challenges, the better the environment can become for everyone working behind the scenes.

About Us

At The Pursuit, a group of experienced therapists have come together to offer best-in-class counseling services. We prioritize clinical theory, non-judgmental approaches, and effective interventions, treatment plans, and coping skills. We have therapists who specialize in different areas and we strive to find the best match for your unique needs. Are you ready to take the first step in your Pursuit towards a happier, healthier you? We invite you to book your free 20-minute consultation with one of our skilled therapists. Don’t wait; it’s time to invest in your well-being. Simply Book Now to start your Pursuit toward personal growth and positive change today. Keep reading if you want to learn more about Anxiety Counseling.