TAMPA – Silly socks were on display Sept. 17 across AdventHealth locations throughout Tampa Bay, but the message behind them was serious: supporting the mental health and well-being of the clinicians who care for others.
Staff at more than 14 AdventHealth hospitals and medical group locations participated in the Let’s Sock About It campaign in recognition of National Physician Suicide Awareness Day.
The local initiative used colorful and mismatched socks as a simple conversation starter, encouraging colleagues to check in on one another and talk openly about stress, burnout and mental health.
The idea originated after a physician accidentally wore mismatched socks to work, leading to conversations throughout the day.
“Sometimes we just need a reason to start talking,” said Leila Durr, director of Physician and APP Well-Being Services for AdventHealth West Florida Division. “A colorful pair of socks can open the door to important conversations about mental health, stress and the support systems available when people need them.”
Those conversations matter to Dr. Arielle Ashkenazi, chief resident at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel.
“Burnout is very real in medicine,” Ashkenazi said. “I’m grateful we’re talking about it more openly and that resources are available when people need support. We also need to remember to give ourselves the same grace and compassion that we give our patients.”
AdventHealth offers mental health and well-being resources for staff, including confidential counseling, peer support programs and wellness services.
