Photo via Ben Pearce's Facebook
Just over two months on from telling fans he was canceling all upcoming gigs in 2016 due to mental health issues, UK producer and DJ Ben Pearce announced today his return to the decks this weekend in Vienna at Pratersauna. "It's a big step but a small one for now in terms of touring but I'm feeling good about it," he wrote in a Facebook post, adding that new music may also be on the way.Back in July, the "What I Might Do" hit-maker pulled out of his upcoming 2016 gigs citing a years-long battle with depression and anxiety, writing at the time: "It has nearly pushed me to saying goodbye altogether a few times and now more than ever I feel that is a huge risk." He made it clear, however, that he wasn't stepping down from DJing forever, but long enough to seek treatment."I never thought I would even get to where I am now, it's not the end of the road I know but what I've done has made a huge difference," he said today. "Finally to anyone out there who is struggling: don't be ashamed or afraid get help, talk about it, trust in your friends and family and love yourself, do anything that makes you smile. You can beat it, it will pass and even if it never goes away, sometimes seeing the world from that angle forms who you are as a person and gives you a clarity you might not have had before. Now let's see if I can remember how to beatmatch…"Pearce's situation, in addition to Avicii's recent retirement from DJing at age 26, has reignited an industry-wide conversation about mental health in electronic music. Earlier this year, Benga returned to DJing after two years, during which he was hospitalized and diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder that he said was brought on by heavy touring and drugs. Others, including deadmau5 and Erick Morillo, have also spoken out about dealing with either addiction or depression issues.If you or someone you know is suffering from anxiety and depression, please take advantage of the resources listed on the Anxiety and Depression Association of America or on MentalHealth.gov.