20 World-Leading Mental Health Speakers to Hire in the UK

2 months AGO |
Health,
Mental Health & Wellbeing
Senior Content Executive

minute read

Why is it Important to Talk About Mental Health?

The escalating rates of mental health disorders among children and young adults, as evidenced by the surge to 20% in 2023 for ages 8-16 and 23% in the 17-19 age group, highlight a growing crisis. These statistics underscore the urgency of addressing mental health and mental illness openly. Poor mental health not only impacts individual well-being but also has profound implications for workplaces, contributing to over half of work-related illnesses and accounting for 51% of long-term sick leaves. The pervasive stress and pressure felt by one in five UK workers further emphasise the need for systemic solutions and support. Additionally, the alarming finding that 9% of professionals experience thoughts of suicide or self-harm, coupled with the fact that 4-10% of people in England will encounter depression in their lifetime, underscores the critical importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health discussions. Open dialogue fosters understanding, support and proactive measures, essential for individual and societal wellbeing.

Source: House of Commons Library, MHFA England & the Mental Health Foundation

Who Are the 20 World-Leading Mental Health Speakers to Hire?

Dr Alex George

Official Client Rating – 9.9/10

Dr. Alex George is a distinguished mental health advocate and keynote speaker, renowned for his diverse experiences and influential outreach. As a former A&E doctor, he possesses firsthand healthcare knowledge, and as the UK Government's Youth Mental Health Ambassador, he's actively involved in shaping mental health education. His engagement with esteemed charities like YoungMinds and Mind further highlights his dedication to mental health advocacy. Alex's large social media following amplifies his impact, where his transparent discussions about mental health, therapy and the pressures of public life resonate with many. Additionally, his roles as Health Editor for Good Morning Britain and presenter on shows like 'Inner Harmony' and 'Naked Education' demonstrate his commitment to health communication. Alex's successful podcast 'Stompcast' and his best-selling book 'Live Well Every Day' further establish him as a trusted voice in health and wellness, making him an ideal choice for mental health-related events and campaigns.

Official Feedback for Dr Alex George:

"We were eager to work with Dr Alex after developing our Emotional Pillar within Consumer Experience for L’Oreal Professional Products Division. Alex is a great figure, doing some amazing things to raise awareness and amplify the topic of Mental Health and he did not disappoint. He inspired the delegates and got people thinking about the important topic. He was on time for every meeting and even when we made a last-minute date and time change he accepted and adapted without any complaints. Alex was inspiring, professional and relatable throughout and we will definitely be looking to work with him again. Keep up the fabulous work Alex!" - L’Oreal

Ruby Wax

Official Client Rating – 9.9/10

Ruby Wax is celebrated as a prominent mental health and wellbeing advocate, whose background as an actress, campaigner and award-winning author has provided her with a unique perspective. Appointed OBE for her contributions to mental health, Ruby has effectively used her media career and performance talents to destigmatise mental illness, offering engaging and informative talks. Her education, including a Master's degree in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy from Oxford, equips her with deep insights into neuroscience. Ruby's engaging style, combining humour with complex concepts, makes her sessions entertaining and enlightening. She conveys complex topics with humour and clarity, as seen in her bestselling books "Sane New World: Taming the Mind" and "A Mindfulness Guide for the Frazzled", further establishing her as a highly respected and influential figure in the field of mental health.

Official Feedback for Ruby Wax:

“Ruby Wax spoke with passion, amazing depth of knowledge and, of course, great humour about the pressures and pitfalls of the human mind. She was incredibly well received by all who attended. I would definitely recommend Ruby for any event where mindfulness and mental health are a priority.” - HSBC

Dame Kelly Holmes

Official Client Rating – 9.9/10

Dame Kelly Holmes is a powerful mental health speaker due to her remarkable journey of resilience and triumph. Overcoming both physical and mental challenges, she transitioned from a successful military career to achieving her dream of Olympic glory. Her journey wasn't without hardship; she battled injuries, clinical depression and personal struggles with her identity. Winning double Olympic gold in 2004 at the age of 34, after years of setbacks, exemplifies her extraordinary determination and mental strength. Kelly’s openness about her struggles, including her recent revelation about her sexuality and her candid discussions in her memoir, make her a relatable and inspiring figure. Her experiences, particularly in overcoming adversity and maintaining mental wellbeing, resonate deeply with diverse audiences, from young athletes to corporate professionals, making her an influential speaker on mental health and resilience.

Official Feedback for Dame Kelly Holmes:

"Would you be able to pass on not only my thanks but a huge thank you to Dame Kelly on behalf of everyone at the hospice. Dame Kelly truly went above and beyond for the hospice on Friday and we are extremely grateful. It was an absolute pleasure for our Fundraising Director to show Dame Kelly around the hospice prior to the event. The audience absolutely loved Dame Kelly’s interview with Dougie on stage and thought she really was a true inspiration. We truly hope Dame Kelly enjoyed being involved." - The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice

Jason Fox

Official Client Rating – 9.8/10

Jason Fox, known as 'Foxy', is a sought-after mental health keynote speaker due to his unique blend of experiences and insights. As a former Special Forces Officer, he candidly shares his personal journey with PTSD, offering audiences a rare glimpse into the challenges and resilience required in extreme situations, such as hostage rescue and counter-terrorism. His transition from a Special Forces Demolitions Expert and Dog Handler to a motivational speaker and television personality allows him to relate his experiences to broader themes of mental health, resilience and teamwork. Foxy's likeable nature and honest storytelling, combined with his roles in television shows like "SAS: Who Dares Wins" and "Meet The Drug Lords: Inside The Real Narcos", have solidified his reputation. His book "Battle Scars" and his work in documentary filmmaking further showcase his commitment to raising awareness about mental health, making him a compelling and inspirational speaker.

Official Feedback for Jason Fox:

"Please pass on our thanks to Jason Fox for the talk he delivered to us last week. We were delighted with the level of interest the event generated. We have had a lot of very positive feedback about the session. And believe me, this is a tough crowd to please! Our colleagues found Jason's talk to be engaging, insightful and inspiring- as did we. We deliberated for some time over various speakers before we decided upon Jason. We definitely made the right choice and we would recommend him without hesitation." - Paul, Staff Wellbeing Manager, Cardiff University

Katie Piper

Official Client Rating – 9.7/10

Katie Piper, an activist, writer and motivational speaker, has become a popular mental health and wellbeing speaker due to her extraordinary journey of overcoming adversity. Surviving a devastating acid attack orchestrated by an ex-partner, she endured over 40 surgeries and significant challenges. Katie's courage and resilience in the face of such trauma have inspired many. She has publicly shared her experience in documentaries, books and media appearances, advocating for burn victims and redefining beauty standards. Founding the Katie Piper Foundation, she supports others with scars and burns, further cementing her role as a beacon of hope and empowerment. Her speeches at events for the likes of Google and Facebook emphasise her dedication to promoting self-love and mental resilience, making her a highly sought-after speaker for mental health and wellbeing conferences.

Official Feedback for Katie Piper:

"Please send our thanks to Katie for what was a fantastic event yesterday for Women's Health Month. She is so incredibly inspirational and such a fantastic speaker. Her messages were so thought-provoking and feedback from across the firm has been exceptional - we feel lucky to have had her come in. Thanking you also for all your help organising. Looking forward to the Men's Health event next month" - Sarah, HR Specialist, Simpson Thatcher & Bartlett LLP

Gareth Thomas

Official Client Rating – 9.7/10

Gareth Thomas is celebrated as a mental health speaker for his extraordinary journey and advocacy. Renowned as one of Wales' most accomplished rugby players, holding records like the second-highest try scorer for Wales, his transition to becoming a prominent LGBT advocate adds profound depth to his narrative. His courageous decision to become the first openly gay professional rugby union player in 2009, coupled with his efforts to destigmatise HIV, mark him as an inspirational figure. Gareth's speeches, characterised by humour, honesty and humility, focus on overcoming obstacles, advocating for diversity and inclusion and ending homophobia. His multifaceted career, including influential roles in sports, media and advocacy, along with personal experiences, makes him a compelling, relatable speaker, capable of captivating and motivating diverse audiences.

Official Feedback for Gareth Thomas:

“We have had soooooo much feedback immediately from staff saying how much his presentation, and answers to our questions, have made them think differently about sexuality, and in particular, how non-LGBT people have a huge role to play in ensuring we as a company, and a society, evolve to create true equality for LGBT people. Plus from what I can tell… he made a significant proportion of the audience cry too, myself included! It was my first time hosting an event of this sort with a high profile person (well, with anyone to be fair), and he made me feel really at ease/comfortable too, demonstrating patience and good humour… He should be so proud that telling his story the way he does can have such a resonating and positive impact on those who hear it.” - Jonny, Operations Manager, XPS Group

Derek Redmond

Official Client Rating – 9.7/10

Derek Redmond's journey from an elite athlete to a motivational speaker makes him a compelling choice for mental health speaking engagements. His athletic career, marked by triumphs and setbacks, including a memorable display of resilience at the 1992 Olympics, demonstrates his deep understanding of adversity and perseverance. Transitioning into high-performance coaching and management, including roles with Thomas International and UK Athletics, Derek gained expertise in team-building, motivation and performance optimisation. His experience with discrimination further enhances his insights into diversity and inclusion. This blend of personal struggle, professional achievement and commitment to empowering others positions Derek as an inspiring figure, capable of connecting with audiences on mental resilience and peak performance.

Official Feedback for Derek Redmond:

"Derek Redmond bravely making it through with little help, moments of euphoria after years of hard work. Moments when the human spirit triumphs over injury that should have been impossible to overcome." - President Barack Obama

Matt Haig

Official Client Rating – 9.7/10

Matt Haig, a best-selling author who overcame a major depressive disorder and a suicide attempt at 24, is a compelling mental health speaker. His personal journey, detailed in his Sunday Times best-seller "Reasons to Stay Alive," exemplifies resilience and offers hope to others facing similar challenges. Matt’s ability to articulate his experiences with depression and anxiety, alongside practical insights for positive living, resonates deeply with audiences. He skillfully handles dark themes in his children’s books, making complex issues accessible to young readers. His open discussions about the importance of seeking help and speaking about mental health struggles, combined with his composed and honest delivery, make him an impactful and inspiring speaker.

Tyson Fury

Official Client Rating – 9.6/10

Tyson Fury, a two-time Heavyweight Boxing World Champion, is a prominent mental health and wellbeing advocate. His journey from battling severe mental health issues to reclaiming his title as Lineal Heavyweight Champion showcases remarkable resilience and mental strength. Having faced sudden fame and its toll on his mental health, Tyson’s experience offers a unique and relatable perspective. His comeback, overcoming obstacles like being knocked down twice in his bout with Deontay Wilder, symbolises his mental fortitude. As a speaker, he shares his compelling life story, emphasising the methods to overcome personal hurdles, making him an inspirational figure in mental health advocacy.

Victoria Pendleton

Official Client Rating – 9.6/10

Victoria Pendleton, a renowned Olympic cyclist, stands out as a powerful mental health keynote speaker due to her extraordinary achievements and personal struggles. With 14 international gold medals, her experience in peak performance and personal development is unparalleled. Her autobiography and sports speeches offer unique insights into elite competition and the winning mindset. However, it's her candid revelation of battling severe depression post-retirement, including a near-suicidal experience, that adds profound depth to her narrative. Overcoming mental health challenges and advocating for positive female representation, Victoria’s journey resonates deeply, inspiring audiences with her resilience and dedication both on and off the track.

Official Feedback for Victoria Pendleton:

“Professional, open and humourous, all in the right measure.” - Logistik Ltd

Nadiya Hussain

Official Client Rating – 9.6/10

Nadiya Hussain is sought-after as a mental health speaker due to her inspirational journey from a timid baker to a celebrated chef and media personality, despite battling a longstanding anxiety disorder. Winning the Great British Bake Off in 2015 marked the start of her public journey, where her resilience, self-belief and hard work became evident. Nadiya's struggle with panic disorder, a form of anxiety that impacted her daily life and relationships, adds depth to her narrative. She openly shares her experiences, including the challenges and breakthrough moments, like recognising her condition as an illness. Her relatable story and achievements, despite mental health challenges, offer hope and encourage open conversations about mental health, making her an influential and authentic speaker on the subject.

Official Feedback for Nadiya Hussain:

"Nadiya went down really well with our audiences. She captured and maintained the audiences’ attention, and her story was a great way to normalise and humanise the topics of religion and identity. Her candour, and warm and open nature were really appreciated by our attendees." - BlackRock

Beverley Callard

Official Client Rating – 9.5/10

Beverley Callard, renowned for her roles on British television, especially in "Coronation Street", brings a unique perspective as a mental health speaker. Her candid discussions about her own battle with clinical depression, which she attributes to being a "workaholic" and "perfectionist" resonate deeply. Beverley’s journey through mental health challenges, coupled with her fame and successful career in acting and fitness, makes her a compelling and relatable figure. Her viewpoint that depression often afflicts strong, dedicated individuals challenges common misconceptions, offering a powerful narrative. Her experience as a TV personality and presenter, including on "Loose Women," enhances her skills in engaging and connecting with audiences on these critical issues.

Official Feedback for Beverley Callard:

"She did a cracking job once again. She is real natural onstage in that environment. She is also so personable with the guests after the presentation. She literally spent two hours chatting with the guests.” - Sapphire Princess

Owen O’Kane

Official Client Rating – 9.5/10

Owen O'Kane is sought after as a mental health speaker for his unique blend of medical expertise and practical wellness strategies. As the author of "Ten to Zen", he incorporates evidence-based research into his approach to stress management and wellbeing. His background in medicine, psychotherapy and experience with the NHS, alongside qualifications from Queen's University and Mindfulness Teacher Training, equips him with a deep understanding of mental health challenges. Owen's work in palliative care, listening to patients' regrets about life stress, fuels his passion for improving mental health. He effectively communicates strategies through speeches, combining personal experiences with therapeutic techniques like mindfulness and cognitive behavioural therapy. His ability to address the high-stress environment of corporate audiences makes him particularly relevant, as evidenced by his engagements with notable clients such as Virgin Atlantic and BBC.

Official Feedback for Owen O’Kane:

"Owen ran a series of interactive mental wellbeing sessions for Vodafone staff. The feedback from these sessions was incredible. I still regularly get colleagues talking about them today." - Alex, Head of Corporate & Portfolio Strategy, Vodafone Business

Joe Wicks

Official Client Rating – 9.5/10

Joe Wicks, known as The Body Coach, is a celebrated mental health keynote speaker due to his impactful blend of fitness expertise and motivational coaching. His approachable, humorous persona resonates with audiences globally, making him a fan favourite. Through his interactive workouts, Joe not only enhances physical fitness but also fosters mental wellbeing, emphasising the mind-body connection for optimal performance. His notable achievements, like setting a Guinness World Record for his widely viewed PE sessions and raising significant funds for the NHS, underscore his commitment to community wellbeing. Joe's bestselling cookbooks and extensive social media reach further attest to his influence and authority in fitness and health. His corporate workout sessions with major companies have proven effective in boosting morale, teamwork and productivity, showcasing his ability to positively impact mental health in the workplace.

Official Feedback for Joe Wicks:

"It was AMAZING!!! The team is absolutely buzzing. Joe was fantastic. Such a pro. Loved his thoughts on mental health and the personal slant he brought to it all. His answers were really thoughtful, and it all chimed so well with our purpose and ethos at eBay. It was so motivating, and we really loved hearing about his genuine connection with eBay. Thank you so much." - eBay

Rio Ferdinand

Official Client Rating – 9.4/10

Rio Ferdinand, an esteemed English footballer, has become a passionate advocate for mental health, driven by personal experience. As one of England's greatest footballers, Rio’s dedication and leadership, including his role as the national team's captain, made him a respected figure in the sport. His advocacy work in mental health was significantly influenced by the personal tragedy of losing his wife to cancer in 2015. This profound loss led him to openly discuss his battles with grief, depression and anxiety, inspiring others through his memoir 'Thinking Out Loud' and the documentary 'Being Mum and Dad'. Rio’s involvement with initiatives like Heads Together alongside Prince Harry highlights his commitment to promoting mental health conversations. His down-to-earth nature and firsthand experience with adversity make him an effective and relatable speaker, capable of resonating deeply with diverse audiences, particularly at corporate events where his insights into resilience and inclusivity are highly valued.

Tony Adams

Official Client Rating – 9.4/10

Tony Adams, an Arsenal legend and esteemed footballer, has an impressive history as a defender and captain, leading Arsenal to numerous triumphs including three FA Cups and four Premier League titles. After retiring in 2002, he continued influencing football as a manager for teams like Wycombe Wanderers, Portsmouth and Granada. Beyond the pitch, Tony is deeply committed to mental health advocacy, drawing from his personal battles with alcoholism. He founded the addiction relief charity, Sporting Chance, and later established SIX MHS to address mental health issues in the workplace. His recovery journey, combined with his charity work and professional experience, makes him a powerful and relatable mental health speaker. His participation in Strictly Come Dancing after a mental breakdown and health scare further underscores his dedication to mental wellbeing, resilience and the importance of seeking help. Tony brings a wealth of experience, authenticity and inspiration, making him an influential figure in mental health advocacy.

Will Young

Official Client Rating – 9.4/10

Will Young, a revered name in the UK music scene, transitioned from his Pop Idol triumph and global music success to a passionate mental health speaker. His candid disclosure of his struggles with anxiety, PTSD and the impacts of homophobic abuse mark him as a compelling, relatable figure in mental health advocacy. Will’s personal battles, including a significant breakdown, addiction and the tragic loss of his brother to addiction and suicide, bring a depth of experience to his talks. As an LGBT+ community activist, he addresses issues of identity, bullying and the profound emotional challenges he's faced. His journey from a vulnerable period of intense anxiety and addiction to a place of mindfulness and self-awareness showcases resilience and the importance of mental health awareness. His willingness to openly share his experiences makes him an inspirational speaker, resonating with those facing similar challenges and highlighting the importance of mental health in all aspects of life.

Simon Thomas

Official Client Rating – 9.3/10

Simon Thomas, a renowned broadcaster with over two decades of experience, has emerged as a powerful mental health speaker. His journey from a beloved television personality, starting with "Blue Peter" and transitioning to a respected sports presenter at Sky Sports, laid the foundation for his public appeal. However, it was his personal tragedy, losing his wife to Acute Myeloid Leukaemia in 2017, that profoundly transformed his path. This life-altering experience propelled Simon to focus on helping others navigate grief and mental health challenges. His dedication is evident in his role as president of Bloodwise UK, his book "Love Interrupted" and his widely read blog on grief and single parenthood. Simon's ability to connect with audiences, combined with his personal insights into overcoming adversity, makes him an impactful and inspirational mental health speaker.

Official Feedback for Simon Thomas:

"The session with Simon had a real impact on the business. Simon really connected with so many of our staff who are experiencing issues and a number came forward to seek help after the event. It had more of an impact than we ever thought that it could. Simon's honesty and vulnerability was inspiring for our staff and we are very grateful for him sharing his story with us" - BHP

Jay Shetty

Official Client Rating – 9.2/10

Jay Shetty is a highly sought-after mental health speaker due to his unique blend of ancient wisdom and modern practicality. His experience as a monk provided him with deep insights into stress-free living and productivity, which he successfully applies to Western culture. With over 20 million followers and four billion views on social media, Jay has a vast global influence. His transition from a monastic life to a media career allows him to offer practical advice to individuals and businesses, aiding their growth and success. Jay’s impactful keynote speeches at major companies like Google and Microsoft, coupled with his interactive approach and focus on key life aspects such as resilience and wellbeing, make him an effective and engaging speaker. His ability to convey complex concepts in relatable terms, supported by his 'Genius Coaching Group', extends his reach, making his teachings accessible to a broad audience.

Official Feedback for Jay Shetty:

“Aside from being an excellent communicator, all of the advice, stories and tips Jay shared were spot on and super related to what the event was about. Everyone loved the session and Jay helped us end the event on a very high note.” - Google

Andy Puddicombe

Official Client Rating – 9.1/10

Andy Puddicombe is a renowned mental health advocate and speaker, celebrated for co-founding Headspace, a leading meditation app. His journey began as a sports science student who turned to meditation following personal tragedies. After spending a decade as a Buddhist Monk, he returned to the UK to share his knowledge, leading to the establishment of Headspace. His app, with over 62 million downloads worldwide, makes meditation simple and accessible, integrating it into daily life. As a speaker, Andy combines personal anecdotes with practical advice, making meditation relatable and beneficial for both individuals and corporate clients. He has expanded his influence through media appearances and Netflix collaborations, authoring books that explore meditation's impact on various aspects of life. Andy's approach demystifies meditation, providing tools for incorporating mindfulness into routines with lasting effects, showcasing his commitment to improving mental health globally.

How Can I Inspire Conversations Surrounding Mental Health & Wellbeing?

The statistics reveal a crucial need to break the silence surrounding mental health. With 24% of people’s mental health worsening due to a lack of conversation, it's evident that early, open discussions can be life-changing. Encouraging dialogue in our daily routines, particularly in a culture where 36% neglects to discuss mental health, is vital. Open conversations about mental health not only aid in personal recovery but also build a supportive, understanding community.

Hiring a powerful mental health speaker can be transformative in fostering open conversation. Such speakers share personal experiences and expert insights, breaking down stigmas and inspiring empathy. Their stories resonate, offering relatable perspectives that encourage individuals to speak openly, thus creating a supportive environment where discussing mental health becomes normalised and valued.

Hire a World-Leading Mental Health Speaker Today!

Transform your approach to mental health, by hiring one of the dynamic speakers honoured in our official selection of the 20 world-leading mental health speakers to hire! Empower, educate and inspire open meaningful conversations surrounding mental health, by contacting one of Champions Speaker’s dedicated booking agents to discuss the prospects of a mental health speaker at your next event. Call us on 0207 1010 553, email [email protected] or complete our online contact form to secure the perfect mental health speaker who will help create healthier and more supportive environments throughout society.

This blog post has been authored by Megan Lupton, who has gathered official data and customer feedback from 870 events focused on company wellbeing and mental health, held in the United Kingdom between 2020 and 2024.

 Senior Content Executive

Specialist Areas: Female Motivation & Inspiration, LGBT, LGBT+ History Month, Media & Journalism, InnovationMegan joined Champions Speakers in 2019, working on exclusive creative content for Champions Speakers as a Digital Copywriter. In 2020...
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