To mark Men’s Health Awareness Month in November, PC Fred Bray, a seasoned officer with 22 years of service, shared his inspiring journey of overcoming mental health challenges through exercise. His recent fundraising efforts for mental health charities underscore the positive impact that physical activity can have on mental wellness.
Currently working in the crime management unit at Force Headquarters in Ripley, Fred has seen his role evolve significantly over the years. In 2017, he transitioned to light duties after struggling with the demands of frontline policing, which exacerbated his ongoing battle with depression and anxiety. This change was prompted by a mental health crisis that led Fred to confront the deeper impact these conditions were having on his well-being.
Struggling with Mental Health in Policing
Reflecting on his struggles, Fred recalls how panic attacks and mini-blackouts while on duty were clear signs that something was seriously wrong. “I knew something was wrong when I started experiencing panic attacks while at work,” he explained. “It was then that I decided to see a doctor.”
Despite being diagnosed and medicated for depression and anxiety years earlier, Fred admits that he didn’t fully recognize the extent of their impact until his mental health began to deteriorate. “My workload and the lack of support I felt from the Force made it even harder to cope,” he said. “There were days when I didn’t want to see anyone or talk to anyone.”
Fred’s turning point came when he started opening up about his mental health struggles, which he believes was crucial in lightening the burden. “Once I became more open about my mental health, I began to realize how much it had been weighing me down. That openness made a huge difference in my recovery,” he said.
Raising Awareness and Supporting Others
Fred now actively raises awareness at work by wearing a lanyard indicating his invisible illness, a visible reminder of the importance of acknowledging mental health issues. “It’s crucial to be open about these struggles,” he said. “This has allowed me to manage my own well-being better and continue being open with others.”
A key part of Fred’s mental health management routine is regular walking and hiking. Earlier this year, he took on the Three Peaks Challenge—climbing the highest mountains in England, Scotland, and Wales within 24 hours—to raise funds for two important causes close to his heart.
The Three Peaks Challenge: A Fundraiser for Mental Health and Autism Services
Fred, who is a father to two autistic children, chose Rethink Mental Illness and Derbyshire Autistic Services as the beneficiaries of the fundraiser. The challenge, which took place on 28 September, saw Fred joined by eight Derbyshire officers and one police staff member, all of whom share an understanding of mental health struggles.
The group faced the physical and mental challenge of climbing Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in England, and Snowdon in Wales. Despite the tough conditions—low visibility, challenging weather, and fatigue—Fred and his team completed the challenge, raising over £2,000 in the process.
“The whole team came together, and it was absolutely incredible,” Fred said. “At the end of the challenge, I jokingly asked who was worried about their mental health during the hike. You don’t have time to think about mental health when you’re pushing yourself physically. That’s the power of exercise—it helps clear your mind.”
Community Support and the Importance of Kindness
Fred praised the support from his colleagues, both through donations and words of encouragement. “I owe a tremendous thank-you to everyone who supported us,” he said. “When people at the office found out what we were doing, they were fantastic about it. I’m confident the money we raised will make a real difference.”
Looking forward, Fred emphasized the need for kindness and understanding within the workplace to support colleagues’ mental well-being. “In policing, we sometimes overlook the importance of asking each other if we’re okay. Even a simple check-in can make a world of difference,” he said.
Fred’s message is clear: as police officers, colleagues are best placed to understand the pressures their peers face. By showing kindness and supporting each other, they can create a stronger, more compassionate work environment.
“As officers, it’s vital we remember that only we truly understand what we go through in this profession,” Fred concluded. “We must be there for each other, and never lose sight of that.”
Related topics:
