Thriving at the Fringe: New focus on mental health at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Thrive EdinburghA new partnership between the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership (EHSCP), Health in Mind and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society has today launched resources targeting artists, locals and visitors to help boost their mental health during the festival this August.

The iconic Edinburgh Fringe is the biggest cultural festival in the world, attracting people from across the globe each year – in 2022 2.2 million tickets were issued. For some, this exciting and busy month can also pose mental health challenges which is why we have created Thriving at the Fringe.

The new resource aims to help people enjoy the Fringe and navigate what can be a busy and overwhelming time for some people. Thriving at the Fringe gives information on how to manage the stress of navigating large crowds and highlights useful ways to connect with others.

Other useful guidance is given on how to deal with the heat and its impact on mental health as Edinburgh’s festivals take place in one of our warmest months, and despite Scotland’s reputation for drizzle, we can also get soaring temperatures in August.

Despite being an exciting time in Edinburgh, there are many people for whom services are vital and that is why our new resource aims to connect people with the communities in Edinburgh who are there to help, from free food and support for the homeless to mental health support for anyone who needs it.

Rt Hon Robert Aldridge, Lord Provost of The City of Edinburgh, said “I’m always so mindful too of the performers, whether it’s their first or tenth time; sense of excitement, anticipation and trepidation and that’s why I’m delighted that this year Thrive Edinburgh is working with the Fringe Society and Health in Mind to produce this booklet which gives great tips and advice for looking after your mental health and wellbeing.”

Mike Massaro-Mallinson, Chief Officer of the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “I love the Edinburgh Fringe and it feels such a privilege to have this exciting event on our doorstep. I used to see it as a frustration, battling through crowds, being delayed when wanting to get across town quickly. However, once we embraced the Fringe, there has been no turning back! I LOVE the energy, the diversity of people, the diversity of culture, the creativeness, the comedy, the dance, the drama, the music, the people watching… in fact I love it all!”

Alana Genge, Head of Engagement at Health in Mind said: “Thriving at the Fringe is a vibrant booklet that includes a wide range of mental health and wellbeing information that’s helpful for not only summer in Edinburgh but all year around. I loved reading citizen’s and artist’s memories of the Fringe and what the festival means to them. I hope the guide will help you Thrive at the Fringe this year so you can create some lasting memories too.”

Shona McCarthy, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Health in Mind and Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership this August to signpost services available to audiences attending the Fringe, and artists performing across the city.  The Fringe can be an exhilarating yet intense environment, and in producing the Thrive at the Fringe booklet, we hope that through this new partnership we can share information on all the services and support available this August.”

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