This conversation centers on the work of Minding Creative Minds (MCM), a support organisation offering free, 24/7 mental health and professional services to creatives across Ireland. The discussion covers how artists and creatives can access help with emotional wellbeing, financial challenges, legal advice, career development, and more.
Director Ann Marie Shields outlines the wide scope of services MCM provides, addresses common barriers creatives face when asking for help, and offers encouraging guidance on building sustainable creative careers with the right support systems in place.
Date Tuesday 15th February 2024
FP Host Siobhán Aislinn
Guest Ann Marie Shields
Key Takeaways on Minding Creative Minds
1. Minding Creative Minds is Free & Available 24/7
• Open to anyone in the Irish creative sector.
• Offers mental health support, legal advice, financial counseling, life coaching, and career mentoring.
2. The Creative Industry Faces Unique Mental Health Challenges
• Isolation, irregular income, and pressure to perform can heavily impact artists.
• Creatives often don’t recognise how much stress they’re carrying until it hits a breaking point.
3. You Don’t Need to Be in Crisis to Reach Out
• MCM encourages people to reach out early and often even if it’s “just” burnout or decision fatigue.
• Support is meant to be preventative as well as responsive.
4. Support Is Holistic – Not Just Talk Therapy
• MCM services include:
Counseling (in-person or remote)
Career and life coaching
Legal and financial support
HR and mediation services
• This approach helps creatives build both emotional resilience and practical strategies.
5. Confidentiality and Accessibility Are Key
• Services are completely confidential, and available nationwide (and abroad, for Irish citizens).
• You can refer yourself – no gatekeeping, no application process.
6. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
• The creative community often carries shame or stigma around asking for help – this needs to change.
• There’s strength in vulnerability and community.
7. Get Involved & Spread the Word
• MCM encourages people to:
Share the service with others in the industry.
Take part in workshops, mentorships, and networking events they organise.
Advocate for wellness in creative workplaces.
Memorable Quotes
“People wait until they’re in total crisis – but if you reach out before that, you get more out of the support.”
“Being creative is emotionally expensive work. There should be support systems that recognise that.”
“You don’t need to justify your struggles to anyone. If you need help, it’s there. No questions asked.”