Over 22 million Australians choose to visit a specialist GP every year, often for their mental health. But what happens when those GPs need mental health support?
Doctors around Australia will be digging out the craziest socks in their wardrobe today for Crazysocks4docs Day and wearing them proudly to challenge stigma around mental health and help GPs and patients feel safe to speak up.
Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) President Dr Michael Wright reached out to politicians in every state in the lead up to Crazysocks4docs Day to encourage them to join the conversation and help make it ok for doctors to seek mental health support.
“GPs are seeing more patients with complex and chronic conditions, with mental health now one of the leading reasons people visit their doctor,” Dr Wright said.
“And behind every consultation is a GP who could also be dealing with stress, fatigue or burnout. We must ensure they feel safe, supported and able to speak openly without fear of judgement.
“Doctors are vital members of our communities, and we need a healthcare culture where their health and wellbeing is valued and nurtured.
“This starts with good policies and adequate funding of our healthcare system to look after the people looking after the health of our communities.
“Our RACGP Health of the Nation report indicates that around seven in 10 GPs have experienced burnout, while fewer than half feel they can maintain a good work–life balance.
“These sobering statistics demonstrate a clear need for a stronger focus on wellbeing and psychological safety for GPs.
“Crazysocks4docs Day sends a simple but important message: it’s okay to not be okay, and it’s safe to ask for help.”
Crazysocks4docs Day began in Australia to break down stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health among doctors and medical students.
The RACGP is calling on all practices to get involved – by wearing colourful socks, checking in on colleagues, or starting conversations about wellbeing.
“Day in, day out GPs support their patients through some of life’s biggest hurdles – but too often, they don’t feel safe to speak up about their own challenges,” Dr Wright said.
“It’s time to change that culture and make sure every doctor around the country knows that their mental health is important and has a safe space to turn for help.
“Alongside a free and confidential mental health support service called Drs 4 Drs, the RACGP provides members a range of mental health resources with strategies for self-care, and a free support program with telephone counselling.
“My message to all GPs is: don’t put your health last. If you don’t feel ok, seek help today.”
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