EDM is all about connection. Festivals, raves, and club nights bring fans together, creating unforgettable moments. But while the crowd feels the energy, the artists behind the decks often struggle with isolation.
The Reality of Loneliness in EDM
Loneliness is a growing issue in modern society. According to the American Psychiatric Association, 30% of young adults in the U.S. experience loneliness daily or several times a week. For EDM fans, events offer an escape—a place to belong. But for DJs, the experience can be quite different.
Behind the music, many artists deal with intense pressure, exhausting schedules, and the emotional toll of constant travel. Without a strong support system, the lifestyle can lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression.
Insights from Dr. Sunni Lampasso
Dr. Sunni Lampasso, a psychologist and executive coach, has worked extensively with EDM artists to help them navigate the challenges of their careers while prioritizing wellness. As the founder of Shaping Success and author of Level Up Your Influence: A Self-Awareness Guide to Maximizing Your Growth and Unlocking Your Inner Leader, she emphasizes the importance of mental resilience in the music industry.
Through her work, Dr. Lampasso has seen firsthand how DJs struggle with isolation, unrealistic expectations, and mental health issues. “Fans see the music and energy, but not the stress, sleepless nights, and loneliness that come with life on the road,” she explains. Many DJs perform hundreds of shows a year, often with little time for rest or self-care. This relentless schedule takes a significant toll on both mental and physical health.
The tragic loss of Avicii in 2018 was a wake-up call. More recently, artists like Alesso have canceled shows due to exhaustion, while industry veterans like Armin van Buuren and Zedd have spoken about using alcohol to cope with the pressure. The conversation about mental health in EDM isn’t new, but meaningful change has been slow.
How the EDM Community Can Help
The industry is beginning to acknowledge these challenges, but more action is needed. Supporting artists’ well-being requires a collective effort from all parts of the EDM community:
- Labels & Managers: Prioritize sustainable careers over relentless touring. Build in mandatory rest periods and offer mental health resources.
- Festival Organizers & Clubs: Provide wellness spaces, normalize breaks, and offer support like on-site therapists or performance coaches.
- Artists: Build strong support networks, both inside and outside the industry. Stay connected while touring and speak openly about struggles to break the stigma.
- Fans: Show empathy when an artist cancels a show due to health concerns. Support them as people, not just performers.
EDM thrives on respect, and that respect must extend to the artists who make the music we love. By fostering a healthier industry, we ensure that the music—and the people behind it—can continue to inspire us for years to come.