Now is the right time to become an American Federation of Musicians member. From ragtime to rap, from the early phonograph to today's digital recordings, the AFM has been there for its members. And now there are more benefits available to AFM members than ever before, including a multi-million dollar pension fund, excellent contract protection, instrument and travelers insurance, work referral programs and access to licensed booking agents to keep you working.

As an AFM member, you are part of a membership of more than 80,000 musicians. Experience has proven that collective activity on behalf of individuals with similar interests is the most effective way to achieve a goal. The AFM can negotiate agreements and administer contracts, procure valuable benefits and achieve legislative goals. A single musician has no such power.

The AFM has a proud history of managing change rather than being victimized by it. We find strength in adversity, and when the going gets tough, we get creative - all on your behalf.

Like the industry, the AFM is also changing and evolving, and its policies and programs will move in new directions dictated by its members. As a member, you will determine these directions through your interest and involvement. Your membership card will be your key to participation in governing your union, keeping it responsive to your needs and enabling it to serve you better. To become a member now, visit www.afm.org/join.

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Home » Resources » Health » 10 Mental Hygiene Hacks for Creatives


10 Mental Hygiene Hacks for Creatives

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What are mental hygiene hacks? Just a simple behavior that keeps your creative mind working at its very best. We list ten below.

1) Exercise 30 minutes per day to boost mood, reduce stress, sharpen your mind, and increase energy.

2) Get six to eight hours of sleep in every 24-hour period. Don’t stay in bed too long (10-plus hours dampens energy).

3) Eat healthy to boost your mood.

4) Limit substance use. Alcohol is a depressant. If you use recreational drugs or binge drink, ask yourself: Have you experienced negative consequences of your use? Are you using more drugs/alcohol or more frequently? Have you tried to stop and just keep using? Do you have cravings and withdrawal symptoms? Any positive answer is a sign you may need help.

5) Build a support system of live, face-to-face contact. Limit social media.

6) Challenge your negative thoughts. Negative bias can become a habit.

7) Self-soothe with a daily dose of sunlight. Take a walk; keep a routine.

8) Instead of listening to upsetting news, listen to music to soothe your mind. Create playlists of songs that make you happy.

9) Show compassion; practice generosity. Volunteer to help someone or care for a pet.

10) Know when and where to reach out for help. Create a core group of trusted supporters and develop a written safety plan to cope with stress.
The US National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK (8255). For Canada, visit the website: suicideprevention.ca/need-help/ for a list of crisis centers by province.







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