I started my career in construction as an apprentice bricklayer over two decades ago. In that time I worked my way up to be a project manager running projects such as ITV Studios, Manchester City’s training ground, large projects for the MOD, student accommodation, schools and prisons all over the UK. As well as working on Tier One contracts I also ran my own brickwork company, growing the business from just me to a team of 16.

Those years were a big and steep learning curve for me as this was the first time I started to realise that working and not looking after my own needs began to impact on my mental well-being and the people around me that I loved. In 2018 I experienced a mental breakdown, due to not looking after my mental well-being, because I had the attitude that ‘things like this don’t happen to people like me’. I created The MYH Podcast back in 2021, to create a space for people in the construction industry to feel safe to share their experiences. I started the podcast because my biggest problem was I didn’t TALK! And a podcast is all about talking.

I wanted to let others know they aren’t alone as well as, giving them hope that it can get better. I now no longer lay bricks or run projects, I now raise awareness around mental well-being in the industry. Over the past 3 years I have spoken to over 30,000 construction workers up and down the country teaching them about how to look after their mental health and well-being in the construction industry. I am also an ambassador for The Lighthouse Construction Charity as well as a Make It Visible team member.

TOP TIPS

1. Learning to understand mental health doesn’t look the same to everyone and how you can prioritise yours.

Both physical and mental health are essential aspects of our well-being and like physical fitness, individuals vary in their levels of readiness. While some may excel in challenging activities such as marathons, others may find park runs to be arduous. It is crucial to recognise that everyone has their own unique fitness level, and comparisons to others or even to past selves should be avoided. Mental health manifests differently in each individual, and it is imperative that we prioritise our own well-being as well as that of others. When nurturing our mental health, it is essential to establish boundaries and communicate assertively by declining requests that do not align with our needs and preferences.

2. Learn to be kind to yourself and realise you can achieve things in life.

Occasionally, we can be our most critical critique, failing to recognise the positive aspects of our work. Additionally, comparing ourselves to others can lead to feelings of inadequacy. However, it is important to remember that achieving something can range from simple tasks like making the bed to complex projects. The key is to focus on the progress made and the efforts invested to reach a particular goal.

3. The importance of reaching out for help when you need it.

When our mental well-being diminishes, we may occasionally hesitate to seek support due to the apprehension of causing burden. However, this concern is frequently unfounded. Furthermore, you may experience feelings of isolation, but it is essential to acknowledge that you are not alone in this process.

Numerous resources are available to assist you in restoring

Written by Rob Muldoon

Please note, the views expressed by the original article author are theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of Washingtondowling Associates Ltd or The SHE Show and therefore we take no responsibility for the content or accuracy of this post.