Docs in socks for mental health awareness

New socks. Two socks. Whose socks? Docs’ socks.

Staff across the Townsville Hospital and Health Service have today donned their wackiest socks to mark Crazy Socks 4 Docs Day, an initiative which aims to break down the stigma surrounding mental health in the medical profession.

Founded by cardiologist Dr Geoff Toogood, the campaign takes place annually on 6 June and encourages open conversations about the mental wellbeing of doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers especially around the topics of stress, burnout, depression, and the importance of seeking help.

Director of Paediatrics Dr Jason Yates said Crazy Socks 4 Docs Day was an important opportunity to raise awareness for mental health in the medical profession, and that it was great to see so many staff taking part in the day.

“Every year we're seeing way too many health professionals, particularly doctors, lose their lives to mental health and there's no doubt that can be related to the stresses of the job, whether it be fatigue or vicarious trauma,” Dr Yates said.

“Raising awareness about mental health is crucial for everyone, but it's especially important for healthcare workers and doctors, who are disproportionately affected by mental health challenges.

“As a community and health service, it's important for us to get around each other and make sure everyone's okay.”

Find out more about Crazy Socks 4 Docs Day online – https://www.crazysocks4docs.com.au/