New Boise nonprofit puts mental health first for musicians

Boise State Public Radio

Local musicians have created a non-profit called The Boise Hive, providing independent performing and recording artists with affordable recording and practice spaces. In addition to these resources, the Hive’s leaders also hope to help musicians access mental health services, and to encourage those who are struggling to seek support. “[It] seems like everybody knows somebody who’s played music and not been able to sustain it because of addiction or depression,” said Ivy Merrell, a social worker and musician who is helping to lead the Hive’s mental health project. “It’s a community that’s been affected by suicide many times.” She noted that many young musicians are uninsured, and explained that the nonprofit hopes to offer some financial assistance to cover mental health costs, along with education about how to manage an uneven income. The Hive’s two founders speak openly about their own experiences of depression and suicide loss, in order to challenge the stigma that they say keeps too many from seeking mental health care.

Spark Extra! Read about the mixed progress toward better access to behavioral health care in the United States.