The Mental Game of Dance: Prioritizing Mental Health in an Industry That Demands Perfection
This blog explores the mental health challenges faced by dancers and coaches in their pursuit of perfection, offering support resources and advocating for a more balanced approach to excellence. Through practical tips and compassionate insights, it encourages the dance community to prioritize psychological well-being alongside physical achievement
The dance world is built on discipline, passion, and artistry. It requires relentless training, hours of repetition, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. But behind the breathtaking performances and polished technique lies an undeniable truth: dance is as much a mental game as it is a physical one.
Striving for Perfection in an Imperfect World
Dancers, we get it. The expectation for perfection is everywhere. Clean lines, flawless turns, the ability to execute each movement with both precision and emotion—these standards are drilled into us from an early age. But here’s the truth: perfection doesn’t exist.
That’s not to say we shouldn’t strive for greatness, but when the pursuit of perfection becomes obsessive, it can lead to burnout, self-doubt, and even mental health struggles. The pressure to always be “on” can make it difficult to acknowledge when we need rest or when our mental well-being is suffering.
Signs You May Be Struggling
Feeling constant pressure to be the best, to the point of exhaustion
Comparing yourself to others and feeling inadequate
Struggling with self-confidence and self-worth
Feeling guilty for taking a break or not training hard enough
Experiencing anxiety before performances, auditions, or even daily classes
If any of these resonate with you, know that you are not alone. It is okay to struggle, and it is okay to ask for help.
Coaches: We Carry the Weight Too
As coaches, we often feel like we have to be the strong ones. We’re expected to guide, motivate, and mentor young dancers while keeping our own challenges in check. But let’s be real—this job is demanding. The weight of shaping young athletes, handling administrative responsibilities, and ensuring a positive team culture can be overwhelming.
If we don’t take care of ourselves, how can we show up as the best versions of ourselves for our dancers? We are role models, and prioritizing our own mental health sets an important example. It’s okay to seek support, to acknowledge when we need rest, and to create boundaries to maintain our well-being.
Tips for Coaches
Check in with yourself just as you check in with your dancers. How are you feeling mentally and emotionally?
Create a culture of openness where dancers feel safe discussing their struggles.
Seek mentorship or professional help when you feel overwhelmed.
Remember that growth matters more than perfection. The way you show up for your dancers is more important than being "perfect."
Resources for Mental Health Support
If you or someone you know is struggling, here are some resources to help:
For Dancers & Coaches:
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Offers resources, helplines, and community support. nami.org
Minding the Gap: Mental health regarded with the same seriousness as physical health in dance culture https://www.wearemindingthegap.com/
The Jed Foundation: Supports mental health awareness in young adults. jedfoundation.org
Mental Health Hotlines:
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 support.
National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Text 1-833-TLC-MAMA to talk with a trained counselor
Therapy Resources: Websites like BetterHelp and Talkspace connect individuals with licensed therapists.
A Final Reminder
Dance is an art, a passion, and a discipline—but it should never come at the expense of your mental health. Whether you are a dancer striving for excellence or a coach guiding the next generation, your well-being matters.
Let’s shift the culture of dance to prioritize mental health, embrace imperfection, and celebrate progress. Because the best dancers and coaches aren’t just those who perform at a high level—they are the ones who take care of their minds just as much as their bodies.