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Mater Doctors pulls up their socks for mental health

Thursday 1 June 2017

Mater Doctors pulls up their socks for mental health

Mater doctors and staff are elevating the conversation of the health of healthcare professionals by wearing odd or colourful socks on 1 June for #Socks4Docs day.

Socks 4 Docs day is an initiative to start conversations and show support for health care workers who have had their lives affected by mental health issues or who have lost their lives to suicide.

Dr Jodi-Maree Cronin, Mater’s Medical Education Officer-Vocational Training, spread the word around Mater, with the health and welfare of our healthcare workers being one of her greatest passions.

“Along with an increased risk of a multitude of medical and social problems, as a profession we are more than twice as likely to suicide as the general population. This is an initiative started by healthcare workers for healthcare workers and is purely to raise awareness.”

Dr Cronin urged her colleagues to show their solidarity for other health professionals by wearing odd or colourful socks and telling at least one other person why.

“It may not be you who is currently at risk but statistics tell us you are likely to be in contact with someone who is. Your actions will speak loudly and go a long way towards creating a more supportive environment for discussion.”

A group of doctors in Mater’s Neonatal Critical Care Unit, including Dr Kelly Dixon, showcased their mismatched and funky socks on ward rounds this morning.

 “We are showing our support for health care workers who are affected by mental health illness and suicide. It’s ok to ask for help and admit when we are not coping with the pressures of our profession,” said Dr Kelly Dixon.

Mater Education’s Katherine Jackman echoed the sentiment that good patient care is dependent on good careers and proudly wore her bright socks in support of her colleagues.

“Wearing crazy socks today is important because it raises awareness that health care professionals are sometimes under great pressure. They’re people too and need support.”

 

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