Members encouraged to prioritise their wellbeing this World Mental Health Day

9 October 2026

North Wales Police Federation chair Trystan Bevan has used World Mental Health Day to encourage members to look out for their own wellbeing.

Trystan said the pressures and pace of policing can leave officers with little time to consider their own wellbeing.

He said: “When your job is to help everyone else, it can be easy to forget to check in with yourself.

“Officers spend so much of their working lives helping other people through their worst moments that they need to take time look out for themselves.

“Policing can expose people to experiences that stay with them long after a shift has finished.

“Add in the pressures of everyday life away from the job such as family issues, financial worries, health concerns, and it is easy to see how things can build up.

“This is why we’re reminding members of the need to look after themselves and their wellbeing.”

Trystan said exposure to distressing incidents, combined with the everyday demands of the job, can take its toll.

“Officers can deal with something extremely difficult and then be expected to move straight on to the next incident,” he said.

“That doesn’t mean you are unaffected by what you have seen or experienced.

“I think it’s important to recognise when we need to give ourselves time to process a difficult experience and talk to someone.

“You should never feel they have to put on a brave face or deal with difficult experiences alone.

“Please don’t wait until you are struggling before you talk to someone.”

World Mental Health Day take place on Saturday 10 October. It aims to raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing, reduce social stigma and open conversations.

Trystan said reducing stigma was particularly important in policing.

“Some police officers still see it as a sign of weakness to seek support or fear that they may be seen as unfit for their role,” he said.

“We really need to end that stigma.

“It’s so important to talk, it really does help. Whether that’s a trusted friend, colleague, line manager, or the support services that are available, if things are getting on top of you please talk because it does help.”

Support available to members includes:

• Oscar Kilo Mental Health Crisis Line (24/7), designed specifically for serving and former police officers, staff and volunteers: 0300 131 2789
• Samaritans (24/7): 116 123
• National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK (available 6pm to midnight every day): 0800 689 5652
• The North Wales Police wellbeing team
• North Wales Police Federation reps

READ MORE: Fed welcomes Crisis Line extension to former officers.