Officers encouraged to prioritise themselves this World Mental Health Day

10 October 2024

Hertfordshire Police Federation is urging members to reflect on their own mental wellbeing for World Mental Health Day (Thursday 10 October).

The purpose of the annual campaign is to encourage everyone to have candid conversations about their mental health and to seek help for themselves (or others) if they are struggling.

The theme of this year’s event is workplace mental health.

Hertfordshire Police Federation chair Luke Mitchell said: “Our last pay and morale survey found that 46 per cent of Hertfordshire police officers described their job as ‘stressful or extremely stressful’ and nearly 90 per cent had experienced low mood, stress or anxiety at work in the previous 12 months, which is hugely significant.

“I know there can be a tendency to bottle up problems and try to present an image to colleagues and family that everything is okay, but you don’t have to suffer in silence – there is help if you need it. Sometimes just talking things over with a trusted colleague or your local Fed rep can make a world of difference.”

The Health and Safety Executive reported that 875,000 people were suffering from work-related stress last year, and mental health is the fifth most common reason for sickness absence in 2022, according to the Office for National Statistics.

A spokesperson for World Mental Health Day said: “Work can be good for our mental health, giving us a sense of purpose, boosting our self-worth, and providing opportunities to connect with others. But it can also be a source of stress and anxiety and contribute to developing or worsening mental health problems.

“While talking about mental health in the workplace has become more common, many people still face stigma. This means there’s more work to be done to tackle mental health stigma in the workplace.”

Some may wear a green ribbon today, to show support or take part in 'Tea & Talk' events. The hashtag #WMHD2024 will be in use on social media. For more information visit mentalhealth.org.uk