The Country Music Association (CMA) has donated $100,000 to Music Health Alliance (MHA), in honor of Country Music Hall of Fame member Naomi Judd.
The Nashville-based nonprofit offers access to mental health services, including counseling, psychiatrist visits and screenings, for qualified industry professionals through their Mental Health Fund. Since 2021, the fund has provided more than 1,700 counseling sessions for the music industry.
This pledge follows the organization’s previous financial support to MHA over the past several years. Throughout the pandemic, CMA took action to support not only its membership and country music base but those in the music business severely affected by the health crisis through its Music Industry Covid Support (MICS) initiative, specifically prioritizing mental health resources.
“We often hear firsthand from CMA members and our music industry partners that mental health remains a critical issue for individuals within our business,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA CEO. “While touring and other sectors have bounced back following the pandemic, we cannot underestimate the ongoing need to support those who are struggling. It was only a few months ago we lost the legendary Naomi Judd to suicide, a loss that affected our country community deeply. We applaud the essential work that Tatum [Allsep], Shelia [Shipley Biddy] and the entire team at Music Health Alliance continues to provide to our industry, and we encourage anyone who might be struggling to reach out to their team.”
“Because of its creativity and unique pressures, mental health has always been a challenge facing the music business,” says Allsep, MHA Founder/CEO. “The pandemic elevated the awareness and importance of mental health care for everyone, especially within our industry. Since 2020, MHA has had a 300% increase in requests for mental health support. In honor of our beloved Naomi Judd, we are so thankful for CMA’s pledge of support in addressing this most pressing and continuing need. Now more than ever before, mental health resources and access are critical.”
To make a donation to MHA, click here.
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