RCSEd Wellbeing Support for Mental Health Awareness Week 2025

Monday 12 – Sunday 18 May 2025 marks Mental Health Awareness Week, and this year’s theme, “The Power and Importance of Community,” reminds us that we are stronger, healthier and more resilient when we feel connected.

At the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd), we understand that surgical careers can be demanding and, at times, isolating. That’s why building and sustaining supportive communities is central to our commitment to your wellbeing.

In a time when the cost of living, burnout and rising demand for mental health support are affecting so many, the power of community has never been more important. Feeling connected to colleagues, mentors or the wider healthcare community can make a vital difference. While awareness has grown, there’s still work to do, and together we all have a role in creating safer, more inclusive and supportive environments across our profession.

Whether you're a trainee, consultant, dental professional, or a member of our global community, RCSEd is here to support you – not just this week, but year-round. Below, we’ve signposted the resources and services available to help you feel connected, supported and valued.

RCSEd SupportEd Hub

The RCSEd SupportEd Hub is our dedicated support platform for individuals working in dental and surgical teams, as well as organisations involved in delivering surgical services. It offers a wealth of resources to help healthcare professionals navigate the pressures of their careers – from mental health and work-life balance to professional development. By providing access to confidential support, expert guidance and a sense of community, the Hub plays a vital role in fostering a culture where everyone feels valued and supported.

Explore the RCSEd SupportEd Hub

Global CARE

Through Global CARE, RCSEd extends its commitment to building supportive communities beyond the UK. By investing in surgical and dental capacity in low- and middle-income countries, Global CARE helps create sustainable healthcare communities that can support the mental and physical health of both patients and healthcare providers.

Discover Global CARE

#LetsRemoveIt Campaign

The #LetsRemoveIt campaign is dedicated to eradicating bullying, undermining and sexual misconduct within the surgical profession. These issues can have a significant impact on mental health, and through this campaign, RCSEd is working to create a safer and more supportive environment. By promoting a zero-tolerance approach to such behaviours, the campaign fosters a respectful and supportive community where individuals can thrive without fear of harassment.

Learn More About #LetsRemoveIt

Employment & Wellbeing

At RCSEd, we understand that wellbeing extends beyond personal health – it’s also about having a positive and supportive work environment. The Employment & Wellbeing page offers resources designed to support individuals in building and sustaining a career within a community that prioritises mental health and wellbeing. It also helps you navigate workplace challenges, return to work after significant life events and maintain your wellbeing as you progress in your career.

Access Employment & Wellbeing Resources

Let's Talk Surgery Podcast

The Let’s Talk Surgery Podcast offers a platform for open discussions about the challenges and experiences within the surgical profession. RCSEd brings together experts to explore critical issues impacting the surgical community, including mental health. This podcast provides valuable insights into both personal and professional challenges faced by surgeons, offering practical advice to improve both your career and mental wellbeing. We’re highlighting conversations that bring the community together – from shared experiences of surgical training to honest discussions on burnout and mental health.

Examples include:

• Patient Safety – ‘When things go wrong…’ with Mr. David Alderson | RCSEd (series)
• Financial Wellbeing in collaboration with MedicsMoney | RCSEd
• Patient Safety Series #2 - ‘Just Culture, Not Blame Culture’ with Martin Bromiley | RCSEd
• Team Based Quality Reviews | RCSEd
• Let’s Remove Sexual Misconduct with Clare McNaught

Listen to Let’s Talk Surgery

Awards and Recognition

RCSEd believes in celebrating the achievements of professionals who contribute to the surgical community, fostering a supportive environment that is essential for mental wellbeing. The Awards and Medals pages not only recognise excellence in surgery but also highlight the dedication and resilience of individuals who are role models within our profession. These awards serve as an important reminder that the contributions we make to the surgical community – whether through leadership, mentorship or innovative practice – strengthen the profession as a whole and help to build a supportive environment for future generations.

Explore RCSEd Awards and Medals

Webinars

RCSEd’s wellbeing webinar archive offers accessible resources that support the mental health of surgical and dental professionals. These sessions focus on maintaining wellbeing in high-pressure environments - vital not only for personal health but for delivering safe, effective patient care. By sharing lived experiences and expert guidance, the webinars create a sense of connection and understanding among professionals.

Watch Wellbeing Webinars