The number of NHS and emergency workers seeking help for suicidal thoughts has increased sharply, research has revealed.
Figures from the Laura Hyde Foundation (LHF) shows that 946 workers contacted the charity in the first six months of 2022 for support over suicidal thoughts, up from 556 the year before.
The charity, which was set up by the family of nurse Laura Hyde who took her own life in 2016, offers help to medical and emergency service workers including nurses, doctors, paramedics, midwives, police officers and firefighters.
LHF has launched a new Feelings video to raise awareness of mental health issues among front-line workers, as the charity warned that people could face even more severe issues due to pressures from the cost-of-living crisis.
You can view the video here.
LHF chairman Liam Barnes said: “It is critically important that the new Prime Minister and her new Health Secretary put providing mental health support to emergency workers at the very top of their agenda.
“Sadly, the topic of mental health specifically for healthcare workers remains riddled with stigma. This simply has to end.”
Gemma Clay, 38, nurse and clinical doctorate fellow at the University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, called for more action to support front-line workers.
She said: “When I talk to staff, many of them tell me that the cost-of-living crisis is having a big impact on their mental health.
“Large numbers are also suffering from PTSD linked to the pandemic and burnout due to the current pressures that exist within the service.”
