Cybermindz, a dedicated organization focused on the mental health of cybersecurity professionals, has been established by Peter Coroneos, Founder and Executive Chairman. With years of experience in the cybersecurity and technology sectors, Coroneos has now turned his attention to the wellbeing of cybersecurity professionals. Cybermindz, a not-for-profit mental health initiative, was launched in 2022 and is now expanding its services to the UK.
Coroneos acknowledges the challenges faced by cybersecurity professionals, who often experience signs of burnout and stress. The constant threat environment posed by unseen attackers puts these professionals in a state of “hypervigilance,” which is not conducive to good mental health. Our brains are not evolutionary adapted to combat virtual threats as they would traditionally only face visible, physical attackers. This disconnect contributes to the burnout experienced by cybersecurity professionals.
To address these challenges, Cybermindz offers a program that focuses on preventing burnout and skills loss in existing cybersecurity teams. The organization aims to equip leaders with coping skills and support to ensure their happiness and resilience in the face of an escalating threat environment. Their mission is to enhance the health, wellbeing, productivity, and cohesion of cybersecurity professionals and those who work with them.
Cybermindz provides peer-informed services and operates at scale to transform the human face of cybersecurity. Coroneos, who is also an accredited Integrative Restoration (iRest) teacher, incorporates iRest into Cybermindz offerings. iRest is a simple 10-step protocol that induces deep relaxation and can be practiced anywhere, anytime. It has been supported by scientific trials and military-based research, offering positive effects for mental health.
In addition to iRest, Cybermindz offers organizations the opportunity to participate in masterclasses and courses focused on the neuroscience of burnout. They strive to provide easily implementable support for organizations that build resilience. As a remote organization, Cybermindz is well-positioned for scaling their services.
Coroneos emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health in the cybersecurity industry, stating that organizations and security professionals are in a constant battle against bad actors while also facing pressures from their own organizations. Cybermindz has identified 15 unique factors in cybersecurity that contribute to burnout and stress, including success invisibility, under resourcing, relentlessness, and understaffing.
To coincide with their UK launch, Cybermindz is hosting a virtual summit on UK mental health in cybersecurity leadership. The summit aims to bring together cyber leaders and practitioners to explore solutions to the burnout and mental health crisis in the industry. The event will also showcase the iRest protocol. Interested individuals can register for free on the Cybermindz website.
Overall, Cybermindz is dedicated to addressing the mental health challenges faced by cybersecurity professionals. With their focus on providing support, resources, and training, they aim to improve the wellbeing and resilience of cybersecurity teams and professionals. Their launch in the UK and the upcoming virtual summit demonstrate their commitment to creating a healthier, more mindful industry.