Mental health problems can affect anyone, and at any time of the year, but World Mental Health Day on October 10 presents an ideal opportunity for our industry to show our support for better mental health and the importance of looking after our own wellbeing.

To mark the day and support its theme – Suicide Prevention – we will be sharing a series of personal videos from LionHeart Ambassadors, in which they talk openly about how their mental health struggles impacted their personal and working lives, and how they overcame crippling feelings of depression - and in some cases, suicidal thoughts - to live happier, healthier lives.

LionHeart

LionHeart is the charity for RICS professionals, past and present, and their families.

The services they provide range from financial support, health and wellbeing packages, free professional counselling, work-related support and legal advice, and help if you or one of your loved ones become seriously ill.

Find out more here: https://www.lionheart.org.uk/about-us

Our support extends to past and present RICS members, and their partners and dependants.

Postpartum depression and mental health as a surveyor

Caroline Legg is a regional surveyor and suffered postpartum depression after the birth of her son. As a Lionheart Ambassador, she spoke to RICS about her experience, the importance of mental health in the surveying profession, and how anyone can find the help and support they need in tough times.

Living with anxiety as a building surveyor

Jen Hobart has an anxiety disorder. She talks to us about her struggle within the construction industry and changing attitudes to mental health for the better.

Whether you're concerned about yourself or a loved one, these helplines and support groups can offer expert advice: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/mental-health-helplines/