This Mental Health Awareness Week, 12th-18th May 2025, SIDA member Healthlink360 shares why it is important that we recognise and support the mental health of those serving in compassion driven roles, how humanitarian workers can make use of their resources and services, and some tips for managing mental health. Read more below.
Often, feeling called to serve can mean that there is very little time to switch off; where the work/life boundaries become easily blurred. A recent study has shown that 75% of surveyed aid workers have experienced traumatic events which, combined with other factors, often leads to burnout (Medecins Sans Frontieres, 2024).
At HealthLink360, we are seeing an increasing need for psychological services amongst the humanitarian community, for those who work in positions at home and/or abroad. To ensure that the best care is given at every stage of the journey, whether it be before, during or after a role or assignment, our team of clinical psychologists and counsellors offer preventative as well as reactive services.
Our expertise includes pre-assignment resilience profiles, mid-term psychological reviews, post-assignment psychological reviews, counselling, psychological therapy and debriefs. You can read more about our work and the services we offer on the Healthlink360 website.
Chris Dunkerley, head of psychological services at HealthLink360, said:
“The biggest problems we see in global workers and volunteers are burnout and stress. This kind of work attracts people with caring hearts who believe passionately in what they are doing, but it also makes them vulnerable to working crazy hours and pouring themselves in heart and soul.
“It is not uncommon for such people to suffer burnout and end up leaving the field prematurely. Sensible working hours, good boundaries between work and rest, plenty of investment in friendships, hobbies, exercise – all of this helps to protect against burnout.”
It can be difficult to know how to manage mental health practically day-to-day, especially if serving in high-stress, challenging environments. To help with this, our psychological services team has compiled a list of top tips for managing and looking after our mental health this Mental Health Awareness Week.
1. Remember that connection to others is vital and a basic human need. Take a deep breath and meet up with people when it’s allowed, even if you’re out of practice and it feels scary. And keep using the technology available for virtual meetups, chats and catch-ups.
2. Don’t ruminate on things that are troubling you. Rumination shows up in nearly every mental health disorder. A helpful trick is to notice that the thoughts (fears, facts, rumours etc.) are there in your head, but to refuse to engage with them. They’re like buses that come and go; notice them but focus on the beautiful world around you.
3. Use your time to invest in what really matters: family, friends, faith. No one said on their deathbed “I wish I’d spent more time working/cleaning/washing things.” Of course, some things need to be done but work on investing your time well.
4. Be creative: write, draw, sew, make music. Creativity is an important part of resilience.
5. Manage your emotions. This can be done by focusing on what you can control rather than what you can’t. Also acknowledge how you are feeling, note it, and if possible, share it with someone.
6. Get outside, if possible, for a change of scenery. Being in the fresh air and close to nature is good for lifting our mood. Notice nature and how it makes you feel. Regular exercise is helpful; running, walking or following an online programme.
7. Switch off to avoid media overload: take breaks from social media and anything that is negative, untrue or causes fear, and find a balance between staying informed and protecting your own wellbeing.
It is vital that those engaged in humanitarian work look out for their own mental wellbeing and take proactive steps to ensure they are getting the support they need, so that they can continue to carry out the essential work they do with vulnerable communities without burning out.
Though it can feel conflicting to consider our own needs while supporting those living in crisis, taking time for our own mental health is akin to putting on our own oxygen masks on first; we won’t be able to help others if we’re unable to take care of our own needs, and that begins with establishing practices for building resilience and making time to check in with our mental health. How we show up for ourselves has a direct impact on how well we can show up for others.
If you, your team or organisation would benefit from HealthLink360’s services and expertise, please get in touch on 0131 653 6767 or email admin@healthlink360.org and we’d be happy to discuss your needs.