Our life of contrasts...

The cold and the sun. Two seemingly contrasting states and yet, on a day like today, they work in perfect harmony. Just got back from a walk to the gym in the crisp cold air with the warm sun on my back and it was really glorious. It made me think about how many of life's contrasts work really well together - like that salty and sweet popcorn!

I'm often told that my husband and I are 'complete opposites' and I happen to agree in terms of personality, thinking and social style but our relationship works so well because we share the same values and purpose. That common ground. Often opposite demands, needs, and expectations can be managed really well if they are approached with the right attitude and mindset.

I was reading the post on linkedin from @Mind this morning for #menshealthmonth and thought about how so many men face this contrasting challenge in life. They have societal expectations to be strong and capable and yet they are also encouraged to show vulnerability and ask for help.

As our mental health conversations progress and more and more of us are taking up the call to educate, inform, promote, and support - it's good to know that these contrasts are being spoken about. Working together we can normalise these expectations and behaviours in the same way that sweet and sour sauce works together and is, well - delicious!

Glad to be part of the conversation.

Mental health and the construction industry

The construction industry is known for its high-pressure work environment and physically demanding nature. Workers are exposed to several factors that could impact their mental health. Long, irregular working hours, job insecurity, financial pressures and social isolation to name a few. Unfortunately, the construction industry in the UK has seen an alarming increase in suicide rates and mental health problems in recent years. In the news today new statistics came out saying that the suicide rates have more than doubled in the last two years.

The higher rates of suicide can be attributed to various factors as stated above, and they can effect all workers as well as the assumption that it’s a mans world and the need to be tough is an image that can isolate those in need.  White collar workers tend to have better mental health support whereas within other industries including construction, mental health awareness training is lacking. Additionally, the nature of the work itself can lead to injuries and chronic pain, which can increase the risk of depression and anxiety.

Where is the support and who is responsible for people working in the construction industry?

The construction industry is also known for a culture of silence and stigma around mental health problems. Workers are often reluctant to speak out about their mental health concerns due to fear of judgment and repercussions. The lack of awareness and education about mental health issues can contribute to the problem which is another reason help and support is needed.

There are companies out there that are taking positive action, and reap the benefits of a positive mental health approach. 

It is crucial that the construction industry takes proactive steps to address the mental health issues faced by its workers. By providing access to mental health resources and support programmes, the employers show their care and support for their employees. These resources should be confidential and easily accessible to encourage workers to seek help when they need it. Training programmes should also be provided to increase awareness and education about mental health issues in the industry.

The construction industry has a responsibility to address the mental health problems faced by its workers. By providing support and resources to workers, the industry can help to reduce suicide rates and promote better mental health outcomes for its employees.

We are here to help, so please contact ase@mrtconsultants.co.uk for more information. We are happy to have a no obligation chat to see what the needs are within your organisation.

Here is a testimonial from a recent workshop with a property developing company and their staff:

‘Just wanted to say thank you so much for these last 2 workshops. They have been so fun, informative and interactive for the whole team. I really feel that my colleagues are more open and feel able to speak up about mental health. This training is invaluable, and we appreciate you both so much for taking the time to deliver this training for us. The team have said that the workshops contain just the right mixture of information and activities and have really enjoyed the sessions.’