Mental Health Advocacy in Ballet: Kathleen Gaines, Founder, We Are Minding the Gap

  In 2017, Kathleen Gaines shared her experience with depression in a Dance Magazine article titled “Why Are We Still So Bad at Addressing Dancers’ Mental Health?” The article quickly went viral, becoming one of the most-read in the magazine’s history, and inspired the creation of her organization, We Are Minding the Gap. In this episode, we sit down with Kathleen to discuss the challenges dancers face in the ballet world, from the pressures of perfectionism to the stigma surrounding mental health. She shares her journey from dancer to advocate, emphasizing the urgent need for change. We explore how her organization is breaking the silence and fostering a culture of wellness in ballet schools, and even why she believes teachers can become powerful allies in creating a healthier, more supportive environment for their students. Learn more about We Are Minding the Gap on their website Links: Ballet Help Desk Buy Corrections Journals Discounts On Your Favorite Ballet Brands! Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk