World Mental Health Day: don't let your mental health reach crisis point
10 October 2025
Suffolk Police Federation is encouraging members to take time for their emotional wellbeing this World Mental Health Day.
And members are being reminded to seek help if they are struggling with their mental health.
Branch wellbeing lead Emma Arthurs-Newman said recognising the signs and reaching out for support at an early stage can be vital in preventing problems from escalating.
She said: “Policing can be incredibly rewarding, but it is also incredibly demanding. Officers are often required to deal with trauma, high-pressure situations, and long and unsociable hours.
“They may be dealing with things away from work, such as health concerns, family issues, and money worries. These can all take their toll.
Branch wellbeing lead Emma Arthurs-Newman
“It’s important not to wait until things reach a crisis point.
“Speaking to someone at an early stage, accessing support, or even just acknowledging how you’re feeling can make a huge difference.
“There is no shame in asking for help. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can make sure you have the right support around you.”
Suffolk Police Federation’s 2025 Pay and Morale Survey outlines some of the issues facing members.
Stressful
· 47 per cent of respondents said they find the job stressful
· 80 per cent reported experiencing stress, low mood, anxiety or other difficulties with their health and wellbeing in the past 12 months
· Half (50 per cent) said their personal morale was ‘low’ or ‘very low’
· Some 85 per cent felt morale within the Force was ‘low’ or ‘very low’
· 17 per cent of respondents said they intended to resign from the police ‘within the next two years’ or ‘as soon as they can’. with morale (85 per cent) and the impact of the job on their mental health and wellbeing (78 per cent) cited as key factors.
Emma added: “World Mental Health Day gives us the chance to take a moment for ourselves, to look out for each other, and to say it’s okay not to be okay.
“Our mental health deserves the same attention as our physical health.
“If you notice that you’re struggling, talk to someone. That first conversation could be the start of getting back on track.”
Wellbeing bus
Emma ended by drawing attention the next set of dates planned for the ‘Feels on Wheels’ wellbeing bus.
“The Feels on Wheels bus will be continuing its tour in the area. If you see us, please come and have a chat. We are here for you.”
The up-and-coming Feels on Wheels dates are:
- 14 October: Bury St Edmunds and CID departments in West
- 29 October: Lowestoft and Halesworth, including CID departments in East
- 5 November: (Men's Health ‘MOVEMBER’ tour with Men's Wellbeing Coach Joe Ball) West of County to include Haverhill, Sudbury, Stowmarket, BSE and RAPT/ARV
In the meantime, if you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. Support is available through the Federation or by calling:
- Mental Health Crisis Line (24/7) designed for police officers and staff: 0300 131 2789
- Samaritans (24/7): 116 123
- National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK (available 6pm to midnight every day): 0800 689 5652
- Mind’s Blue Light Infoline: 0300 303 5999
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