Erick the Architect, Chelsea Cutler, MILCK fight mental health stigma through music

Erick the Architectopens in new window has struggled with the stigma of discussing mental health as a Black man. The rapper based in Brooklyn, New York, told Riana Elyse Anderson, PhDopens in new window, he’s found ways to vocalize topics around emotional well-being by making music that reflects his innate openness and reaches a loyal fanbase.

Chelsea Cutleropens in new window’s decision to take a break from social media to decompress proved to be a hard one. Yet, the singer-songwriter from Westport, Connecticut, explained to Anderson it was one of the best things she’s done in her career.

MILCKopens in new window manages depression and has lived with anorexia and trauma related to past sexual abuse. The Los Angeles singer-songwriter described to Anderson how their experiences have informed their activist spirit and contributed to writing what became the unofficial anthem of the inaugural Women’s March.

These musicians are sharing their wisdom on how to cope with pertinent issues also facing Millennials and Gen Z in America. Their conversations with the Harvard Hutchins Center for African and African American Research fellow are part of a series hosted by APA and New York-based nonprofit Sound Mind Live.

The APA and Sound Mind Live collaboration, called “Listening Well,” is a three-episode set of interviews with an artist and Anderson, who provides evidence-based feedback.

The initiative runs from January to April 2024 on APA’s Instagramopens in new window, LinkedInopens in new window, Xopens in new window, Threadsopens in new window, and YouTubeopens in new window accounts, and Sound Mind Live’s TikTok channelopens in new window.

APA research shows social media is at its best when it helps young people make healthy connections that generate community support, companionship, cooperation, and trust with their peers. Digital platforms also provide a place for important self-discovery and expression for youth.

Studies also underscore young people are comfortable with, and prefer, online communication when discussing mental health (PDF, 355KB)opens in new window. They seek out mental health information using the internet.

Each “Listening Well” episode includes a recording of the complete interview and two social media reels that highlight parts of the show in a minute or less.

To learn about the research on social media and young people, see APA’s health advisory on social media use in adolescence. Also, get advice for parents on how to keep kids safe on social media.