Cybermindz and Gibbs Consulting have unveiled a pioneering partnership to support the mental well-being of cyber security professionals across the UK. The initiative introduces military-proven mental resilience training designed to address the growing mental health crisis within the sector.
Central to this collaboration is Cybermindz’s BaseCamp™ programme, offering 50 fully-funded places to cyber security professionals in critical roles. This innovative training aims to restore mental resilience and equip individuals with the tools needed to perform under intense pressure.
The Crisis in Cyber Security
Recent research has shed light on alarming trends in the mental health of cyber security professionals:
- Burnout rates have reached 50% over the past year.
- 35% of respondents believe they are at risk of burnout within six months.
- 80% predict burnout will occur within three years.
Compounding these challenges, UK Government findings from September 2024 reveal significant talent shortages and declining confidence in handling cyber threats:
- 44% of businesses report a lack of employees confident in performing essential cyber security tasks, such as those outlined in the Cyber Essentials scheme.
- 27% struggle with advanced skills gaps in areas like penetration testing and incident management.
- Confidence in managing breaches has dropped dramatically, with 48% of businesses now doubting their capabilities, compared to 27% in 2020.
- The cyber security sector faces an estimated shortfall of 11,200 professionals, while women’s participation in key roles has declined by 22% in three years.
Addressing the Challenge
Cybermindz’s BaseCamp™ programme draws on Integrative Restoration (iRest®), a neuroscience-backed technique developed by US mental health expert Dr Richard Miller. This UK-first initiative provides peer-informed mental fitness strategies to reduce burnout and sustain performance under pressure.
The 50 funded places will prioritise professionals in high-stress roles, such as CISOs, SOC analysts, red teamers, and incident responders.
Farida Gibbs, Founder and CEO of Gibbs Consulting, highlighted the necessity of the programme:
“We are witnessing an unsustainable level of mental health challenges within cyber security. Our collaboration with Cybermindz.org is not just timely—it’s essential. By underwriting these training places, we’re sending a message that mental resilience support is critical, not optional. We want to ensure that those at the front lines of cyber defence are equipped not only to protect our digital assets, but also to safeguard their own well-being.”
Peter Coroneos, Founder of Cybermindz, shared his vision for the initiative:
“This partnership signifies a commitment to the health of the cyber security workforce. By offering these early adopter placements, we’re not only expanding Cybermindz’ reach in the UK but directly empowering those in critical roles and adding momentum to a growing movement that recognises the importance of mental resilience as a key pillar of cyber security.”
Participants of Cybermindz programmes have lauded its impact. Simon Orcsik, a SOC Team Leader, reflected:
“Cybermindz offers crucial strategies to help people in the industry manage stress, improve their cognitive recovery and focus. I have not seen anything offered like this in the industry. The programme has had a great effect on my burnout recovery; I highly recommend it as a very good addition to the cyber defender’s toolkit.”
Joseph Miller, an Information Security Manager, expressed his gratitude:
“As an Information Security Manager who has battled severe anxiety for years, I am deeply grateful for the incredible support and services provided. This work is invaluable, and knowing there are people like you in the field gives me great hope and joy for the future. I cannot express enough how impactful your assistance has been; it’s helped me unwind and stay calm, using the techniques we discussed multiple times. Thank you for making such a significant difference in my life.”
How to Apply
Applications for the 50 fully-funded places are now open to UK-based cyber security professionals. Due to anticipated high demand, early application is recommended. For more details or to apply, visit: http://cybermindz.org/basecamp-gibbs.
