Mental health is a big deal. According to the 2019 National Mental Health Survey of Doctors and Medical Students, it affects one in five doctors in Australia. High-pressure professions like doctors, nurses and specialists can be especially prone to stress, anxiety and depression. Organisations like Crazy Socks 4 Docs work to break down the stigma health professionals face. This year we partnered with them by donating pairs of crazy socks.
How Crazy Socks 4 Docs started
Founded in 2017 by Dr Geoff Toogood, the initiative puts the spotlight on the mental wellbeing of doctors and health practitioners. Dr Toogood experienced anxiety and depression while transitioning from trainee doctor to cardiology specialist. After finding the right support, he was inspired to reduce doctor suicide and created Crazy Socks 4 Docs to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around seeking help.
Why crazy socks?
Because Dr Toogood once wore mismatched socks to work, after his new puppy treated himself to a few sock snacks, and discovered colleagues were questioning his sanity. The campaign now encourages doctors to wear crazy socks on the first Friday in June to spark conversations about mental health.
Raising awareness
Medical professionals are often held to a high standard and may feel pressure to maintain an image of strength, making it hard to admit when they are struggling. By organisations working together, we can create real impact.
Our novelty socks were exactly what they sought
Our fun novelty socks, with bold colours and bright designs, are the perfect crazy socks to spark conversations about mental health. As Bellview General Manager Karen Lawler explains, as a socially aware business we feel a duty to support the mental health and wellbeing of our community, including junior doctors, whose wellbeing is essential to quality patient care. Many of our cotton socks are made with BCI cotton, and most packaging is recycled.