On Friday 3 June, we are encouraging all our employees to put on a pair of odd, colourful or eccentric socks to support CrazySocks4Docs Day.
CrazySocks4Docs Day is observed annually to raise awareness of mental health challenges affecting doctors, reducing discrimination and stigma, and opening dialogue about mental health. At Monash Health, we are observing a broader view and continuing the conversation about the mental health and wellbeing of all our healthcare workers.
How can I get involved?
All employees are invited to get involved on the day and be a part of an ongoing commitment to create a safe space to advocate for mental health and promote action towards seeking support.
1. Pick out a pair of socks
On Friday 3 June, pick out your craziest pair of socks and wear them to work. All employees, both onsite and working remotely, are encouraged to participate.
Roll up your pants and make sure your socks make a colourful appearance at standup, handover and throughout the day.
2. Start a conversation
Use your crazy socks as an icebreaker to check in and see how a friend, a colleague, or your team are going, to discuss, reflect and open up about how they are feeling.
Include this as an agenda item at a team meeting, a talking point for handover, or reach out to a team member in the tearoom or during your lunch time over Teams.
3. Share with us and go in the draw to win
- As a team, send us a picture of your crazy socks and if you would like 1 – 2 sentences about how your team is starting the conversation about mental health by filling out this form (the form opens at 12am Friday 3 June)
- Start a bigger conversation and snap a picture of your socks and post to social media using the hashtag #CrazySocks4Docs
All submissions will go in the draw to win free coffee vouchers for your team. There will be prizes available for the top two teams, and the Monash Doctors team will be in touch with you if you have won a prize.
4. Continue the conversation
At Monash Health, you are never alone, and support is available to help you recognise, manage and reflect on your emotions individually and with the support of your team every day.
In a climate of ongoing change, the pandemic has shown us the importance of checking in with ourselves, our colleagues, and our loved ones.
We understand it may be challenging, but the first step is starting a meaningful conversation about your mental health, normalising discussions about not being okay, and seeking support when it’s needed.
We continue to prioritise the wellbeing of all our employees, and have a number of ongoing initiatives, resources and support services available to help you.
To learn more about the day, its founder, and origins, visit the CrazySocks4Docs website.
Approved by Dr Anjali Dhulia.