ABS launches #AnxietyArch

Build the arch and strengthen the support #anxietyarch

Throughout 2019 the Architects Benevolent Society (ABS) will be putting the mental wellbeing of architectural professionals and students at the top of the agenda through its #AnxietyArch campaign.

The campaign aims to:

• encourage architectural professionals and students to recognise and talk openly about mental health issues and know where they can access help when they need it most
• raise money to enable ABS to support more people experiencing stress, anxiety and anxiety based depression, through its partnership with Anxiety UK
• promote good practice in terms of people looking after themselves, their colleagues, their employees and their families.

Mental health was reported to be the biggest single worry for respondents aged under 30 in the Architects Journal (AJ) Life in Practice Survey 2017; and the AJ student survey 2018 reported that 1 in 3 architecture students have received or are currently receiving treatment for a mental health problem, an increase from the previous year. These issues are not specific to architecture, with an estimated 1 in 6 adults in the past week experiencing a common mental health problem*, but the vulnerability of the architectural professions, widespread long hours’ culture, combined with any issues outside of work can impact significantly on mental wellbeing.

Architects Benevolent Society is committed to speaking openly about mental health issues and promoting positive mental health and wellbeing for those in the architectural community. Although there is a lot of media coverage about promoting positive mental health, showing a move towards reducing the stigma attached to mental health issues, there is a long way to go.

'There are growing contemporary mental health issues which are having serious impacts right now on students, working architectural professionals and their families. This has been a hidden and taboo subject, but affects all of us at some points in our lives; it is no longer someone else’s problem, it is ours.'
Jane Duncan OBE PPRIBA, ABS President

Get involved
Each month, the #AnxietyArch campaign will focus on a different theme, with personal stories and articles identifying pressure points and sharing tips, advice and coping strategies. To see how you can get involved in supporting this important campaign, including signing up to fundraising events, joining the Corporate Supporter Scheme and posting on social media support to help spread the word; please visit absnet.org.uk/anxietyarch

In addition to practical mental health support, ABS can provide financial support and confidential advice on a range of issues including debt management, benefits, housing, health and disability.