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nhsprachealth.bsky.social
NHS Practitioner Health
@nhsprachealth.bsky.social
210 followers 87 following 270 posts
Mental health and addiction treatment service for health and care professionals who cannot access confidential treatment from local services.

Tel: 0300 0303 300
For 24/7 crisis support text NHSPH to 85258.
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nhsprachealth.bsky.social
Like Dr Darrelle Gengasamy, all of our clinicians at Practitioner Health are committed to providing compassionate care informed by their understanding of the struggles health and care professionals face.
Meet the Team: Dr Darrelle Gengasamy, Lead Clinician, Practitioner Health Darrelle is a Lead Clinician at NHS Practitioner Health who also works as a GP and coach. She is passionate about compassionate, practical support that helps clinicians understand themselves better and build sustainable ways of working and living. Having experienced a diagnosis of complex cancer with significant uncertainty in her thirties, Darrelle brings a deep understanding of what it can mean to be both a clinician and a patient, and of the possible challenges in navigating a return to work. While Practitioner Health is not a neurodivergence specialist service, she has a strong interest in neurodivergence in health and care professionals. She especially enjoys supporting those who want space to reflect on traits, strengths and challenges, whether or not they are seeking a formal diagnosis.
February 9, 2026 at 6:00 PM
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If you are struggling with ongoing feelings of anxiety, you're not alone. Our expert clinicians are equipped with the skills and experience to help you get well, and return to the job you love. Register with us today: www.practitionerhealth.nhs.uk/
In January 2026 45% of health and care professionals registering with Practitioner Health felt nervous, anxious, or on edge nearly every day.
February 8, 2026 at 5:00 PM
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Speaking about your experiences of mental ill health can help others to overcome feelings of shame and access the support they need. This #TimeToTalkDay, help us to start the conversation around mental health by sharing your story in the comments.
It's time to speak about your personal experiences. “As heroic as they are, healthcare workers are also human and therefore experience the same challenges in life as everyone else. As a health and care professional, speaking about your personal experiences of mental ill health with your colleagues can help others to not feel shameful about their suffering, seek help, and overcome their difficulties so that they can get back to doing the job they love: caring for the health of our nation. It's a win for everyone.” Dr Lena Huins, Consultant Psychiatrist, Practitioner Health
February 5, 2026 at 6:00 PM
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This #TimeToTalkDay, take a moment to check in on your colleague's wellbeing. Let us know how it goes!
It’s time to create a space for open conversations. “Time to Talk Day offers an important reminder to acknowledge the emotional load that comes with working in health and care. Many roles involve holding responsibility, uncertainty, and pressure, whilst continuing to show up for others. Creating space for open, human conversations can make an important difference. Taking a moment to check in, start a conversation, or let someone know you’re there and willing to listen are simple, meaningful ways to support the wellbeing of those around you.” Dr Lee David, Clinician & CBT Therapist, Practitioner Health Author and GP
February 5, 2026 at 3:00 PM
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This #TimeToTalkDay, take the step to reach out for support. If you are a health or care professional in England or Scotland who is unable to access confidential treatment from local services, Practitioner Health may be right for you. Register with us today: www.practitionerhealth.nhs.uk/
It’s Time to Reach Out for Support. “This Time to Talk Day, I’d love people to take a small brave step. If you’re feeling the strain, don’t just keep swimming, reach out for support. Shame, or a fear of letting the team down, can keep us suffering in silence, but it’s always easier to address things early. And if you think a colleague may be under pressure, reach in: ask how they are, listen, and help them find the next step.” - Dr Richard Duggins, Psychiatrist, NHS Practitioner Health & Author of Burnout-Free Working
February 5, 2026 at 12:01 PM
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Here at Practitioner Health, we are proud to provide a safe and confidential space for health and care professionals to talk through their problems. This #TimeToTalkDay, how will you be fostering conversations about workplace wellbeing? Let us know in the comments!
Talking to Practitioner Health: Your Experience “Working in healthcare, I never thought I would need help or support for my own mental health. For a long time, I battled with the idea of needing to reach out for support. Practitioner Health created a safe and confidential space for me to talk and open up- which is not something I take lightly.” “The PH service has been a great support for me during a rocky time in my life. My clinician discussed and involved me in treatment options and plans. I felt listened to, and most importantly, felt like I had someone to talk to at work during a time of vulnerability and distress.” “I came to PH in a real time of need, and I needed support to be able to help control my work-related stress and anxiety. Talking through what had been going on helped me process what was happening.”
February 5, 2026 at 9:30 AM
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It's #TimeToTalk about boundaries! In the latest episode of Burnout and Beyond, clinicians Dr Lee David and Dr Richard Duggins discuss what boundaries are, why they are important, and techniques to effectively set boundaries at work! Listen here: bit.ly/NHSPractitio...
February 4, 2026 at 6:01 PM
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This #TimeToTalkDay, it's safe to talk about suicide. For more information on navigating conversations about this topic, have a read of 'Touched by Suicide: Practitioner Health's Prevention and Postvention Guide': bit.ly/PHNavigation...
How to talk about suicide safely. Read here: bit.ly/PHNavigationGuide How to talk about suicide safely. Read here: bit.ly/PHNavigationGuide
February 3, 2026 at 6:00 PM
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Do you know how to start a conversation with someone struggling with their mental health? Practitioner Health's Prevention and Postvention Guide includes a communication toolkit with a variety of tips and tools you can use: bit.ly/PHNavigation... #TimeToTalkDay
How can I start a conversation with someone struggling with their mental health? SPIRE: Spot the signs, Provide Space, Invite conversation, Respond with empathy, Encourage next steps. Read more here: bit.ly/PHNavigationGuide
February 2, 2026 at 6:01 PM
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February is full of exciting resources, awareness days, and events for Practitioner Health! To keep in the loop, subscribe to our monthly newsletter: bit.ly/NHSPHNewslet...
Looking Ahead: February 4th February: Episode 4 of Burnout and Beyond 5th February: Time to Talk Day 2026 26th February: Dr Helen Garr Speaking at Faculty of Medical Leadership Conference
February 1, 2026 at 1:00 PM
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Practitioner Health is proud to provide a safe, confidential space for health and care professionals to discuss, process, and deal with difficult experiences at work.
Feedback Friday: "I sadly needed to access help from PH due to a prolonged traumatic experience in my clinical role. My clinician was kind, compassionate, and the professional anyone would be lucky to have. I could not recommend the PH service enough. Words are inadequate really. Thank you, I am sincerely grateful for the care and guidance I received."
January 30, 2026 at 8:00 AM
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Practitioner Health offers a variety of support groups for our patients via a referral from their clinician or therapist. If you are struggling with addiction and cannot seek confidential support from local services, register with us today.
Possibilities Group: Support group for Practitioner Health patients which is available to access via a referral from a clinician. This group aims to offer a safe, supportive space where members can reflect, support one another, problem solve, and develop skills in order to practice abstinence from alcohol and drugs. Participants are welcome to attend for up to 9 or 12 months.
January 28, 2026 at 6:01 PM
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Still feeling the January blues? Our webinar with Anna Reddy is now available to watch on YouTube: bit.ly/PHWinterWebi...
Rest, Recover & Recharge to Beat the Winter Blues with Anna Reddy Watch here: bit.ly/PHWinterWebinar
January 26, 2026 at 8:00 AM
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Practitioner Health has a variety of measures in place to ensure that our patients are able to receive the support they need in a safe, private space. Read here: bit.ly/PHConfidenti... #DryJanuary
Feedback Friday: "I have nothing but the utmost praise for the service I recieved from both of my clinicians. They were unfailingly compassionate, supportive and professional, and are undoubtedly one of the reasons I remain sober and healthy. Words cannot express my gratitude to both of them."
January 23, 2026 at 6:00 PM
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If you are struggling with your alcohol use this #DryJanuary, and cannot access confidential treatment via local services due to your role, register with Practitioner Health today: bit.ly/4dNK39F
How does Practitioner Health help patients with addiction? Treatment for addiction at Practitioner Health involves a comprehensive assessment with one of our clinicians. We can support you with treatment options, which may include abstinence, replacement, referral for talking therapy or group therapy or, in more severe cases, residential treatment.
January 21, 2026 at 6:00 PM
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We appreciate the feedback received from our patients. Your insights not only help us improve but also highlight the importance of our services. For more information on the service or to access resources, please visit our website - bit.ly/4dNK39F
January 16, 2026 at 12:00 PM
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One hour to go!

Join us for our FREE Practitioner Health webinar Rest, Recover, and Recharge to Beat the Winter Blues with leading wellbeing expert Anna Reddy. To join the session, register here - bit.ly/49pQQ8C
January 14, 2026 at 11:30 AM
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As we step into a new year, we want to take a moment to thank those who have trusted us on their journey. If you would like further information on accessing our service, please visit our website.
January 9, 2026 at 9:00 AM
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In episode 3 of Burnout and Beyond, we dive deep into the themes of trauma, moral distress, and moral injury with Practitioner Health Clinicians Dr Lee David and Dr Richard Duggins. Discover how these critical factors contribute to burnout in health and social care. Listen here -
January 8, 2026 at 5:01 PM
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We want to hear from you!

Our podcast series continues to grow, and we want to make sure we are addressing the topics that matter most to health and care professionals. Share your suggestions for topics we should cover this year in the comments below.
January 8, 2026 at 1:00 PM
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Will you be taking part in Dry January?

Making changes to habits in the new year can be challenging. Our expert clinicians and therapists are available to support you with mental health and addiction. Visit our website to find out more about how we can help - www.practitionerhealth.nhs.uk/
January 6, 2026 at 8:00 AM
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Our expert clinicians and therapists are here to support you or any colleagues who may need additional mental health support. Visit our website to find out more about how we can help - www.practitionerhealth.nhs.uk/
January 2, 2026 at 9:00 AM
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Wishing you a very Happy New Year from all at NHS Practitioner Health.
January 1, 2026 at 9:00 AM
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We recognise that not everyone can take time away during this period. To support you, we are sharing our Practitioner Health guided meditation designed to help you pause, unwind and restore some calm, even if only for a few minutes.- open.spotify.com/episode/0Cxo...
December 30, 2025 at 8:00 AM
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During the Christmas period, our service will be operating reduced hours. Please check our website for updated opening times over the New Year period. If you require support during this time is available online. - www.practitionerhealth.nhs.uk/shout-and-ph...
December 29, 2025 at 9:00 AM