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Every July, Talk To Us Month shines a light on the importance of mental health and wellbeing, particularly through open communication. This initiative is especially relevant to the construction industry, where demanding schedules, physical work, and potential safety hazards can create unique challenges.
Why 'Talk To Us' Matters in Construction The construction industry is renowned for its fast pace, tight deadlines, and physically demanding work. These factors, combined with potential exposure to hazards and a culture that may discourage open communication about mental health, can contribute to: |
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- Stress and Anxiety: Deadlines, workload, and safety concerns can lead to chronic stress and anxiety.
- Depression: Feelings of isolation, lack of control, and financial worries can contribute to depression.
- Substance Abuse: Some workers may turn to substances to cope with stress or pain.
- Suicide: Tragically, the construction industry has a higher than average rate of suicide.
While Talk to Us Month has traditionally focused on encouraging people to discuss their mental health, we recognise that numerous daily challenges can impact our wellbeing. Talking about any of these issues is a great first step towards improving overall wellbeing.
Talking it Out: Building a Culture of Support
Talk To Us Month is a chance for the construction industry to champion open communication and prioritise mental wellbeing. Here's how you can get involved
Talk To Us Month is a chance for the construction industry to champion open communication and prioritise mental wellbeing. Here's how you can get involved
- Employers: Promote a culture of openness and encourage employees to seek help if they are struggling. Offer access to Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) and mental health resources.
- Employees: Look out for colleagues who may be showing signs of stress, anxiety, or depression. Reach out and offer support, and encourage them to talk to someone they trust, a therapist, or an EAP counsellor.
- Industry Organisations: Spread awareness about Talk To Us Month and mental health resources available to construction workers. Organise events or workshops on stress management and emotional wellbeing.
Find out how we helped people who have reached out
Lisa had been enduring an emotionally abusive relationship for a few years before the relationship came to an end recently. She heard about us after meeting our #MakeItVisible team on a site visit one day.
At the time of seeking help, Lisa was on maternity leave, and although the relationship had ended, her ex-partner was still coming to the family home which was making her feel vulnerable. |
‘Paul’ 48, a full-time Construction Contracts Manager, has been working in the industry for five years. He was familiar with our charity and services through his company and had participated in a recent site visit from our #MakeItVisible team who delivered a wellbeing talk, offering support. Paul was trying to cope with the tragic loss of his brother and experiencing overwhelming and extreme emotions.
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‘Jason’, a 32 year old plant operator, contacted us after being involved in a road accident where the other person involved tragically lost their life.
This traumatic event triggered a severe emotional reaction for Jason, including experiencing flashbacks of the accident, and anxiety and depression. A concerned colleague recommended that Jason reach out to us for professional support. |
