LISBON — This year's installment of TES Lisbon included a presentation on the critical issue of performer mental health by adult industry nonprofit Pineapple Support.
In a special TES session organized to raise awareness for the organization’s growing list of free and low-cost services, Pineapple Support founder Leya Tanit spoke with industry leaders, explaining the mission of the organization, and how industry support has allowed her to connect over one hundred performers to mental health services and care. Tanit, who is also a performer, used the opportunity to present her findings from of a recent, anonymous survey of adult performers on issues of mental health — numbers that helped illustrate the scope of the problem.
“I cannot thank TES Lisbon enough for the engaged, enthusiastic support they gave to the organization,” said Tanit. “In addition to the session, we were a constant presence at the conference, with sponsored tapas and port tastings, cocktail hours and morning coffee. TES Lisbon made sure our logo — and our cause — was seen by everyone.”
Launched in 2018 in response to a string of performer deaths last winter related to depression and addiction, the non-profit organization helps provide access to free and low-cost psychotherapy, counseling and emotional support to persons working in the adult industry.
In the past few months, Pineapple Support has provided therapy and counseling services at industry trade and award shows, organized holiday performer gatherings, advocated for performers in the press, and worked to raise money for additional services. In addition to direct therapy organization now has over 60 volunteer active listeners, and online chat available 24/7 for those who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction or other issues.
Major industry companies including MindGeek, xHamster, Clips4Sale and Kink.com have supported Pineapple Support financially and through in-kind services. According to Tanit, Pinneaple Support will announce more partners in the coming week.
Connect with Pineapple Support online and follow them on Twitter and Instagram.