💙 World Suicide Prevention Day (10 September) is a reminder that mental health deserves just as much attention as physical health. For healthcare professionals, this is especially true. Every day, doctors, nurses, carers, vets, and other frontline staff carry the emotional weight of caring for others-often putting their own wellbeing last.
At Happythreads, we believe that looking after those who care for others starts with creating a supportive, open environment where mental health is taken seriously.
The pressure on healthcare professionals
Working in healthcare comes with unique challenges:
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Long and unpredictable shifts.
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Exposure to suffering, emergencies, and loss.
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High responsibility and decision-making under pressure.
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Balancing patient needs with administrative demands.
It’s no surprise that studies consistently show higher rates of stress, burnout, and mental health struggles among healthcare professionals compared to many other industries.
Why talking about mental health matters
Silence can be dangerous. When stress, anxiety, or depression are left unspoken, they can grow into something much harder to manage. By talking openly, we help to:
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Reduce stigma.
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Encourage early support.
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Create a culture of empathy and understanding.
Opening the conversation could mean asking a colleague how they’re really doing, checking in after a tough shift, or sharing resources that can help.
How Happythreads supports mental health
We know that mental wellbeing at work is essential. That’s why at Happythreads we offer our team:
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6 free therapy sessions with professional counsellors.
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A flexible working culture, including remote work options.
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Small but meaningful initiatives like Free Lunch Fridays and cake on every employees birthday, which help build community and connection.
These steps may seem simple, but they go a long way in showing that everyone deserves care-inside and outside of the workplace.
What you can do to support a colleague
If you’re part of the healthcare community, here are a few ways to make a difference:
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Listen without judgement when someone opens up.
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Check in regularly with your team, especially after challenging days.
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Share resources such as mental health hotlines or local support networks.
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Encourage breaks and balance - sometimes a reminder to rest is just as important as a helping hand.
Together, we can break the stigma
World Suicide Prevention Day is not just about awareness-it’s about action. Each small step towards openness and support can save lives.
At Happythreads, we are proud to stand with healthcare workers, not only by providing uniforms that make them feel confident and comfortable, but also by recognising that mental health is part of the uniform too.
💙 Let’s continue to look out for one another-because caring for others begins with caring for ourselves.
👉 If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to a trusted professional or call your local support hotline immediately. You are not alone.
Support networks:
- aware.ie.
- jo@samaritans.ie.
- Freephone 116 123, any time.