Today, a memorial tree was planted in the gardens of BMA House in London to honour the memory of doctors and healthcare professionals across the UK who have died by suicide.
Taking place on World Mental Health Day, the planting is part of the National Memorial Tree Campaign founded by the charity Doctors in Distress in collaboration with the author and former doctor Adam Kay.
The memorial tree is accompanied by a plaque and represents the Association’s commitment to continue advocating for change for those medical students, doctors and healthcare professionals that currently suffer in silence.
Suicide prevention among both healthcare professionals and patients is a key priority for the BMA. Alarming data reveal that suicide rates among healthcare workers have been 24% higher than the national average, with female doctors being one of the groups at increased risk. Data further indicates that, tragically, one doctor dies by suicide approximately every three weeks.
At the planting, BMA chair of council, Professor Phil Banfield, said:
“The figures speak for themselves; we are in the midst of a mental health crisis for our healthcare workers. Every doctor, student and indeed anyone that is lost to mental illness is an utter tragedy.
“Despite all the clinical and technological advances in medicine, mental illness and suicide remain taboo subjects. That is why the BMA is proud to support this important initiative. Planting a tree is a powerful symbol—a living tribute to the lives that were cut short and a reminder to every healthcare worker that their well-being really matters.
“We continue to campaign for better mental health support for all those working in healthcare, alongside steps to tackle the root causes of it, including inadequate working conditions and pressures created by understaffing. As doctors, we can demonstrate that we will individually and collectively rid our profession of the pernicious shame associated with mental disorders and encourage those who need help to speak out. At the same time, we must ensure that help is readily and consistently available 24/7.”
Doctors in Distress’ Chief Executive, Ann Paul, said: “We would like every hospital trust in the country to support our National Memorial Tree Campaign and plant a memorial tree, to highlight their commitment to protecting the mental health and wellbeing of their staff. Together we can help to break down the stigma around mental health and help to prevent further suicides.”
Notes to editors
The BMA has a confidential 24/7 counselling line and peer support service which is open to all doctors and medical students.
The National Memorial tree planting campaign aims to plant a tree in every trust and various healthcare settings across the UK to remember those who have died by suicide.
The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.
Doctors in Distress is an independent charity set up in 2019 by Amandip Sidhu in response to the tragic death of his brother Jagdip Sidhu to suicide. The charity runs free confidential peer support groups for all healthcare workers to support them with mental health difficulties as well as campaigning to raise awareness of this topic https://doctors-in-distress.org.uk/