Your wellbeing matters: July 2025

Shining the spotlight on the importance of personal wellbeing for medical, dental and public health professionals. 

As we move through July, two key themes are at the forefront of our focus, Alcohol Awareness Week (7th–13th July) and upcoming placement rotations in August. Both represent important opportunities to pause and reflect for your wellbeing, relationships and professional journey.

Alcohol Awareness Week: 'Understanding Alcohol Harm'

Alcohol Awareness Week is organised by Alcohol Change UK and aims to raise awareness about the impact of alcohol on individuals and society. The theme for 2025 is "Alcohol and Work," which will explore the connections between alcohol consumption and workplace culture. The week encourages discussions about how alcohol can affect productivity, mental health and overall wellbeing in professional settings. 

In your profession, you are often managing high-pressure environments, long shifts, and irregular hours. For some, alcohol can become a way to unwind, but it’s important to stay informed and self-aware.

As you know, alcohol can impact your sleep, mental clarity and overall health. Confidential routes are available to get help. The Sick Doctors Trust specialise in offering support and to doctors, dentists and medical students suffering from alcohol dependence and other addictions.

Rotation Season: Change, Challenge & Opportunity

August is just around the corner, and for many of you, that means moving to a new placement and location. This period of transition can bring a mix of anticipation and anxiety, and that’s completely normal. 

As your employer, we want to acknowledge what this shift can feel like, not just professionally, but personally too.

Moving into a new environment means:

• Learning new systems and team dynamics
• Rebuilding your confidence as you adapt to new responsibilities or specialities
• Managing logistics like accommodation and commuting - often with little time to settle

Behind change may be feelings of uncertainty and these feelings are valid. Our Wellbeing team are on hand to support should you need someone to talk to, and there are also a range of other easily accessible external resources:

• NHS Practitioner Health – mental health support for doctors and dentists including wellbeing advice
• The Cameron Fund – financial support for doctors. Especially helpful if relocation is causing financial pressures

Missed any previous editions? 

Bookmark our Monthly Wellbeing Update page to stay informed and access all previous editions and resources.