Construction workers struggling with their mental health need to feel able to talk about their feelings before they reach crisis point, says Michelle Wiles ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day (10 September).
With more than 6,221 suicides registered in the UK in 2020 alone and on average two construction workers taking their own lives every working day, it is vital we open up the conversation on mental health.
This Suicide Prevention Day, it’s important to reiterate that early intervention is key regarding reducing the suicide rate within construction. It’s vital that individuals struggling with their mental health feel they are able to talk about how they are feeling and seek support before reaching that crisis point.
‘It can happen to anyone’
In 2019, my husband Chris suffered a mental health crisis brought on by severe stress, which developed at rapid speed and led to him taking his own life. No one should go through what Chris went through, and no family should go through what we have. Chris never experienced any mental health illness previously so I can’t emphasise enough that if it can happen to him it can happen to anyone.
Education on how to spot the signs that someone could be suffering from poor mental health and having the confidence to “start the conversation” is vital to breaking down the barriers that prevent individuals from reaching out to the available support.
Mates in Mind helps everyone to understand their roles and responsibilities when it comes to mental wellbeing and importantly, their approach enables individuals to understand how, when and where they can get support.
No one should be afraid to ask or tell someone that they are struggling. Please do know that you can talk and there is someone there that understands your struggles, reach out to a manager or someone you trust if you are struggling, you are not a failure, there is always a solution.
Michelle Wiles is a patron of Mates in Mind.
Mates in Mind has launched its Suicide Prevention Day hub for Employers, with resources and information to support these vital discussions for organisations and individuals alike. Our World Suicide Prevention Day Resource Hub
