7 Practical Tips for Filmmakers, Producers, Directors and TV & Film Staff

Ideally, your actors will channel their emotions into their roles, adding depth and interest to your production. But complicated emotions often come up, especially with sensitive content, and they can get in the way of your production and your actors’ mental health.

You want your production to run smoothly. And you don’t want to leave your talent feeling disturbed after filming ends. So what can you do?

Try these tips to support the actors in your production and set the stage for success.

1. Talk to your actors about sensitive scenes, like suicide or domestic violence. Do this well before you film them. Be clear and specific. Tell your actors what they can expect, as well as what they can expect from you. Walk them through it so there are no surprises.

2. Ask your actors how they feel about the material. Listen closely. Not only does this give them an outlet for their complex feelings, but it helps you gain insight into what they need to have a successful performance while keeping their mental health intact.

3. Tell your actors what you’ll do to help them feel safe. Be specific. Ask if they’d like any accommodations to support them, like extra time between takes or a brief talk with a therapist.

4. Let your actors know it’s normal to feel unsettled by the material they’re bringing to life. They may struggle with emotions while preparing for the scenes, during the scenes and after filming is over. Acknowledge and validate their feelings.

5. Let your actors know you’re there for them and they can talk to you (if you’re comfortable with that). If you're not comfortable with that, choose someone who's trustworthy and if possible, trained in mental health, to be their go-to person for sensitive feelings.

6. Bring in a mental health advisor or wellbeing coordinator to provide emotional support on set. This is especially important if you aren’t personally comfortable talking with your actors about sensitive issues.

7. If an actor feels a heightened sense of anxiety or has trouble letting go after filming is over, encourage them to talk to a mental health professional.

Consider having a mental health expert on set during filming, who your actors can talk with about how they feel before, during and after the sensitive scenes.

Bringing in a mental health consultant before filming can also ward off problems before they begin. Your consultant can map out a plan to prevent problems and can reach out directly to your cast to help them feel more comfortable about the process.

This is the best way to ensure you’re protecting your talent’s mental health while getting the most out of their performances and clearing the way for your production.

© Kara Mayer Robinson, MA, LMHC