Dr Sunita Kantavil, nurse practitioner Janice Power and Dr Birgit Schulz donned crazy socks on June 1. Pic: Socks for Docs
Camera IconDr Sunita Kantavil, nurse practitioner Janice Power and Dr Birgit Schulz donned crazy socks on June 1. Pic: Socks for Docs Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Crazy Socks 4 Docs campaign to shine a light on mental health issues in health care professionals

Sarah BrookesMidland Kalamunda Reporter

MEDICAL staff from Midland Hospital donned their funkiest socks on June 1 to support the national Crazy Socks 4 Docs campaign.

It is the second year the campaign has run and aims to shine a spotlight on the mental health issues experienced by doctors.

AMA president Dr Tony Bartone said research showed doctors were at higher risk of suicide, suicidal thinking, and psychological distress.

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“There are significantly higher rates for female doctors and doctors in training,” he said.

“This event is a great example of a grassroots campaign with willing foot soldiers driving change within the profession to ensure that we better care for the carers.”

St John of God Midland Public and Private Hospitals director of medical services Dr Sayanta Jana said doctors as well as other caregivers in the health industry were frequently over-represented in statistics around anxiety, depression, suicide, burnout and substance abuse.

“These issues can cause significant distress to the doctor and their loved ones around them,” he said.

“Our hospital places great emphasis on the welfare of all our caregivers.

“Every day we must be mindful that caring for others can take a significant toll on the caregiver.

“Our support is the least we can give them.”

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