Use and Recovery in the Music Industry | Musician Therapy Collective

Substance Use and Recovery in the Music Industry

Substance use is common in the music world, but that does not mean it is always safe or healthy. Long nights, high stress, and social pressure can lead people to use drugs or alcohol to unwind, connect, or keep going. Over time, it can become hard to imagine life without it. Whether you are just starting to question your use or already working on recovery in the music industry, this page offers tools and resources that understand your world. You will find different options for support and ideas to help you move forward without losing who you are or the career you’ve built.

Young adults enjoying a party indoors, holding wine glasses and celebrating.

Why Substance Use Is So Common in Music

Music spaces are often full of energy, stress, and long hours. It is easy for substances to become a way to cope or feel connected. Common reasons substance use shows up in the industry include are shown in the next column.
Common reasons substance use shows up in the industry include are shown in the next column.
Many people say they started to take the edge off or have some fun, but it slowly became part of daily life. In creative fields, it can be hard to notice the line between social use and dependence.

Unstable schedules and lack of sleep
High stress during performances, travel, or recording
Using substances to wind down or feel creative
Social pressure to drink or use with others
Trying to handle anxiety, trauma, or burnout
Heavy use feels normal in music culture
Managing pain from touring, long sessions, or chronic conditions.
Mood swings from pressure, rejection, or comparison

When it starts to get in the way

Signs That Substance Use Might Be a Problem

Not everyone who uses substances has a problem. But when it starts to affect your health, your work, or your relationships, it may be time to take a closer look. Here are some signs that substance use might be harming you:

You’ve missed gigs, sessions, or deadlines because of it
You feel anxious, depressed, or foggy when not using
You need more to feel the same effect
You’ve tried to cut back but keep going back to it
You hide your use or feel ashamed afterward
You spend more money on it than you planned to or can afford

Try the CAGE-AID Assessment

The CAGE-AID is a short self-test used by doctors and therapists. Ask yourself these questions:

C – Have you ever felt you should cut down on your drinking or drug use?
A – Have people annoyed you by criticizing your drinking or drug use?
G – Have you felt bad or guilty about your drinking or drug use?
E – Have you ever had a drink or used drugs first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or to get rid of a hangover (eye-opener)?

Each “yes” is one point. A score of 2 or more suggests you may want to talk to someone. This does not mean you have a diagnosis. It just means it might help to get support.

Recovery in the Music Industry: You Have Options!

Recovery is not one size fits all. What works for one person may not feel right for another. The important part is finding support that fits your values, lifestyle, and schedule.

Therapy can help. Individual support can help explore root causes, manage stress, and build long term coping strategies that work in your life. Here are some additional options musicians and industry pros often explore:

12-Step Programs

AA and NA offer in person and online support

Find an AA meeting
Find an NA meeting

Divided Sky Residential Recovery Program

A nonprofit rehab founded by Phish’s Trey Anastasio, focused on the music industry and affordability

Divided Sky’s Website

SMART Recovery

A science based, secular alternative to 12 step programs, with group meetings and tools

Learn More

Harm Reduction

Safer use practices and gradual change support

(like Next Distro and DanceSafe)

How to Recover Without Quitting Your Career

You do not have to give up your career to feel better. But it might take a new plan, new routines, and the right support. Touring and studio life come with challenges, but they can be managed with small systems that help you stay grounded.

Here are ways people in the music world protect their recovery:

Plan ahead for shows or events that include alcohol or pressure

Join virtual check ins when on tour or away from meetings

Let a few trusted people know what support looks like for you

Replace late night habits with sleep, food, or movement

Use a sober green room or bring your own support tools

Have a list of people you can call or text if you feel tempted

What Recovery in the Music Industry Can Look Like

Support does not have to be big or formal. It can be as simple as checking in with a friend, working with a therapist who understands the music world, or using creative tools like music or movement to help regulate emotions without substances. You do not need to wait for a crisis or “rock bottom” moment to take action. Recovery is not about perfection, but about making progress in your own way. Types of support include therapy to explore underlying issues and build coping skills, peer groups such as 12-step or SMART Recovery, daily routines that include healthy meals and rest, creative outlets that soothe and inspire, and honest conversations that reduce shame and build connection.

There’s More Than One Way to heal

Substance Use and Recovery Look Different for Everyone

Whether you’re cutting back, starting recovery, or just curious about how to feel better, you are in the right place. There is no one right way to heal. The music industry needs you whole and well, not burned out or stuck. Your creativity is not tied to substances, and your worth is not based on how perfect your recovery looks.
Explore these resources. Pick what fits now and come back as you grow. This is about feeling strong, steady, and supported wherever your journey takes you.