Does the Construction Industry need a culture change when it comes to discussing Mental Health?
UK Charity ‘Mates In Mind’ recently found that over two-thirds of construction workers believe there is a stigma surrounding Mental Health that prevents them from talking about their issues with colleagues.
𝘗𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 & 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘕𝘦𝘸𝘴 𝟣𝟨 𝘑𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝟤𝟢𝟤𝟦
Why is this important and why should we all be making our co-workers more comfortable about discussing their Mental Health?
Employees experiencing stress, anxiety, and depression can compromise safety on already busy construction sites, resulting in accidents and injuries. Untreated Mental Health issues can lead to absenteeism, reduced productivity, and high turnover rates, resulting in significant costs to the industry and companies alike.
More importantly and particularly recognised during the dark months of winter, Mental Health remains a bigger concern, contributing to a larger than proportionate amount of the 700 construction workers dying by suicide each year in the UK — equivalent to two people every working day.
𝘗𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 & 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘕𝘦𝘸𝘴 𝟣𝟨 𝘑𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝟤𝟢𝟤𝟦
We can however do something as individuals and as companies…..
We should consider the training and education of employees, including line managers, senior managers and even company Directors on Mental Health and how to support those who are really struggling.
We could implement Mental Health procedures in the workplace such as employee wellness programs and train first aiders additionally in Mental Health Awareness .
Ultimately we should all listen and look out for our work colleagues, after all, although individuals, we are all part of the same team, so we should naturally support each other.
There is also help out there…
Mates in Mind has a variety of services available if you need support, such as the “BeAMate” text support service. Simply text “BeAMate” to 85258 and trained volunteers can help with issues including anxiety, stress, loneliness or depression and are available 24/7.
You can also call some of the following helplines:
Mates in Mind: T: 020 3510 5018
Construction industry helpline: T: 0345 605 1956
Samaritans: 116 123
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