The Country Music Association (CMA) is reaffirming its long-term commitment to supporting the mental well-being of music professionals through a major new investment. The Nashville-based trade organization has donated $3 million to Belmont University to help establish the Center for Mental Health in Entertainment, a pioneering initiative dedicated to improving access to care and education for those working in the entertainment industry.
In addition, CMA has renewed its financial support for Amber Health, ECCHO Live, Music Health Alliance, MusiCares®, and Porter’s Call, five organizations that provide essential mental health services to the music community. The renewed funding will benefit these programs through 2026.
A Legacy of Support for the Country Music Community
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, CMA has focused on ensuring that artists, songwriters, and industry workers have access to critical care and wellness resources. From disaster relief efforts after the 2010 Nashville flood to over $30 million invested in music education through the CMA Foundation, the organization continues to prioritize the people behind country music.
“Mental health is no exception,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “We feel strongly that as a trade association, it is CMA’s responsibility to ensure our industry has the resources, access, and understanding to navigate mental well-being. By prioritizing the mental health of the people who make Country Music possible, we are safeguarding the future of our genre.”
Addressing a Growing Mental Health Crisis
Recent findings from MusiCares’ Wellness in Music survey highlight the urgency of CMA’s efforts. The report found that 11.4% of respondents experienced suicidal ideation in the past year—more than double the national average. Many cited financial instability and lack of access to preventive healthcare as major contributors to their mental health struggles.
A New Center for Change at Belmont University
Through its $3 million donation, CMA is helping to launch the Center for Mental Health in Entertainment on Nashville’s Music Row. The center will provide research, education, and outreach for students and professionals across the entertainment industry.
Leading the center will be Debbie Carroll, who will serve as executive director and endowed chair. Carroll, a respected industry leader with decades of experience supporting mental health initiatives, will guide the center’s vision and programs aimed at creating lasting, systemic change.
Expanding Industry-Wide Impact
CMA’s renewed six-figure funding will also extend to five trusted partners in 2026, ensuring ongoing access to vital care:
- Amber Health – Provided on-site and virtual counseling for nine artist tours, serving more than 120 individuals and helping teams manage anxiety and sobriety.
- ECCHO Live – Delivered on-site support at 12 festivals and one stadium tour, plus seven national webinars on stress, nutrition, and financial wellness.
- Music Health Alliance – Offered over 3,500 counseling sessions to 471 clients, expanding its reach to include artists’ families.
- MusiCares – Supported nearly 2,000 individuals through programs at major events like CMA Fest and the GRAMMYs, plus training for tour managers and support groups for disaster-affected workers.
- Porter’s Call – Provided 5,000 hours of counseling to artists and teams, described by clients as “lifesaving” and “a safe place to fall apart and put myself back together.”
“These investments are about unity,” says Tiffany Kerns, CMA Senior Vice President, Industry Relations & Philanthropy. “Every professional in our industry faces unique pressures, and we want to ensure that care is not only accessible but understood as a priority. These organizations are trusted partners who share that mission.”
Continued Advocacy and Resources
CMA’s mental health advocacy also extends to its Mental Health Hub at CMAmember.com/mentalhealth, which connects industry professionals with wellness resources and personalized care options.
