Addressing the Growing Mental Health Crisis in the UK: A Perspective of Stoicism and Subtle Art

As we mark Mental Health Awareness Week in the United Kingdom, it is imperative to bring into sharp focus the burgeoning mental health crisis that the nation is grappling with. According to the Mental Health Foundation, "In 2023, approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK are expected to experience a mental health problem, up from 1 in 6 people over the period of a week pre-pandemic."

But what has caused this significant escalation in mental health challenges?

"The rise can be attributed to various factors including increased isolation, economic insecurity, and the cumulative stress of living through a global pandemic," says Dr. Niamh McLaughlin, renowned psychologist and mental health advocate. The onset of COVID-19 and the ensuing social disruption have acted as catalysts, inflating an issue that was already growing concerningly.

Another aspect that's noteworthy is the shift in societal values. In the last decade, hedonism – the pursuit of pleasure and self-indulgence – has taken centre stage in our culture. As Kate Sutherland, Professor of Sociology at Oxford, observes, "Our society is increasingly focused on immediate gratification, whether it's social media 'likes' or next-day delivery. However, this focus on short-term pleasure can sometimes come at the cost of long-term mental wellbeing."

Ironically, the antidote to this crisis could be found in ancient philosophy: Stoicism. This school of thought promotes enduring pain or hardship without the display of feelings and complaint. It advocates for understanding what we can control and what we cannot, thereby reducing unnecessary stress and anxiety.

Reflecting this philosophy, Mark Manson in his book, "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," proposes a counterintuitive approach to living a good life. Manson's key messages encourage us to embrace life's struggles rather than always seeking pleasure. He opines that one can lead a content life by giving importance to things that genuinely matter while disregarding the rest.

So how can we incorporate this into our daily lives for better mental health? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Identify Values: Determine what genuinely matters to you and focus your energies on those aspects.

2. Accept Struggles: Life is not always easy. Accepting struggles as part of our growth is crucial.

3. Set Realistic Expectations: It’s important to have goals, but they must be achievable. Unattainable goals can lead to frustration and mental stress.

4. Embrace Change: Change is inevitable. Being open to it can help reduce anxiety and increase adaptability.

5. Stay Mindful: Live in the present, learn from the past, and plan for the future. Avoid unnecessary worry about things beyond your control.

As part of our commitment to improving mental health, Key Health, one of the only multidisciplinary mental health recruiters in the UK, is currently running a campaign to support mental health professionals in their endeavours. For every new mental health care professional who signs up with us on our website www.key-health.co.uk before the end of May, we are giving away a copy of the book "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" as a token of our appreciation. We hope that Manson's wisdom can provide our new signees with insightful perspectives on managing their own mental wellbeing as they support others.

This Mental Health Awareness Week, let's pledge to take a step towards better mental health. Remember, it's not about seeking constant happiness but acknowledging the ups and downs and finding a meaningful way to navigate life's challenges. The journey may be subtle and filled with unexpected trials, but as Manson suggests, it's the journey

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Key Health Blog

Personalised Medicine: The Future of Preventative Healthcare

25 April 2025

In 2025, Bupa is set to offer a revolutionary genetic test that predicts the risk of common diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Developed by Genomics, an Oxford University spinout, this test uses machine learning to generate genetic risk scores, independent of family history and clinical risk factors, enabling personalised, preventative healthcare. How It Works The test measures the impact of numerous genes, providing individuals with insights into their health risks that go beyond traditional methods. Dr. Alan W. Smith from Genomics says, "This test gives people a clearer understanding of how genetics influences their health." Why It Matters Genetic testing has the potential to identify health risks early. In the UK, it’s estimated that genetic factors contribute to 30% of diseases like diabetes and certain cancers. Bupa's test aims to help individuals make lifestyle changes and seek early interventions, improving long-term health outcomes. Dr. Emily Harper from Bupa adds, "By identifying high-risk individuals early, we can offer tailored advice to prevent serious health issues." Global Trends in Personalised Medicine The personalised medicine market is expected to reach USD 93.8 billion by 2026, with genetic testing playing a key role in this growth. As technology advances, the cost of genetic sequencing has decreased, making it accessible to more people worldwide. Looking Ahead Personalised medicine is the future of healthcare, offering proactive, tailored solutions based on an individual's genetic makeup. As genetic testing evolves, we move closer to a world where we can prevent diseases before they start. Dr. Harper concludes, "Genetic testing will be at the forefront of healthcare, allowing us to prevent disease before it occurs." Bupa’s new genetic test marks a significant step in personalised, preventative healthcare, enabling individuals to take control of their health and reduce the risk of serious conditions in the future. The future of medicine is here, and it’s tailored to you.

Men's Mental Health Awareness: Shining a Light on Healthcare Workers

29 November 2024

November marks Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to addressing the unique challenges men face in their mental well-being. While mental health struggles can affect anyone, men working in healthcare often encounter distinctive pressures that demand attention and understanding. The Silent Crisis Men’s mental health is frequently overlooked due to societal norms that discourage open dialogue about emotions. In the UK, men account for approximately 75% of all suicides, with suicide being the leading cause of death for men under 50. These figures are alarming, particularly for male healthcare workers who navigate high-stress environments daily. Healthcare professionals often work long hours, witness traumatic events, and carry the burden of caring for others. According to a British Medical Association survey, 44% of male doctors reported experiencing burnout, while male nurses are at higher risk of depression compared to their female counterparts. Dr. John Reeves, a consultant in emergency medicine, shared his perspective: “Healthcare is rewarding but relentless. Many of us struggle in silence, fearing stigma if we admit we’re not coping." Barriers to Seeking Help Despite the growing awareness of mental health, many men hesitate to seek help. This reluctance is often rooted in the perception that asking for support is a sign of weakness. For male healthcare workers, the pressure to “stay strong” can be even more pronounced. A study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology revealed that male healthcare workers are less likely than their female colleagues to access employee assistance programmes. Instead, they often turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as excessive alcohol consumption, which only exacerbates their struggles. Building a Supportive Environment To create a healthier workplace for male healthcare professionals, organisations and colleagues can take proactive steps: Encourage Open Dialogue: Normalise conversations about mental health by sharing stories and providing platforms for discussion. Promote Resources: Ensure all staff are aware of mental health services available within the organisation. Foster Peer Support: Establish mentorship programmes where male employees can share experiences and support one another. Prioritise Work-Life Balance: Implement policies that reduce excessive workloads and provide adequate time off to recharge. Where to Seek Help If you or someone you know is struggling, it’s essential to reach out. Here are some trusted resources available in the UK: Samaritans: Call 116 123 (free, 24/7 helpline) Mind: Call 0300 123 3393 or text 86463 CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): Call 0800 58 58 58 or visit the webchat at www.thecalmzone.net NHS Employee Assistance Programme: Check with your workplace for access to counselling and support services. Final Thoughts Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to challenge stigmas and support those who dedicate their lives to helping others. For male healthcare workers, prioritising mental health isn’t just important – it’s vital. By fostering open conversations and promoting accessible resources, we can build a culture where no one feels alone in their struggles. This November, let’s make mental health a priority and ensure that the men working tirelessly in our healthcare system receive the care and support they deserve.