Toolbox Talk: Mental health and wellbeing

Introduction

MATES in Construction NZ note:

“The construction industry has the highest number of suicides across all industries in New Zealand. Research has shown that workers find it difficult to discuss feelings and emotions with colleagues at work, and the nature of the work has made social support more difficult. Construction workers are five times for likely to die from suicide than an accident at work"

Construction toolbox talks often focus on preventing a physical injury, however, we are concerned about the physical and mental health of our workers.

Talking about mental health and suicide prevention enable us to provide information and options, and it lets others know they are in a safe environment to do so.

Cause factors

There are many factors that contribute to the high suicide rate among construction workers. Construction is an industry that involves mentally and physically demanding work. Many construction jobs involve potentially dangerous activities in fast-paced environment.

Many workers keep to themselves and do not take the time to share stresses. Sharing stresses or feelings used to be perceived as a weakness. Today, we know it is a sign of courage.

Chronic injury or pain the mental health of an individual. Often, the ongoing battle with pain and injury can become overwhelming. Workers may turn to alcohol and drugs to reduce the pain for the chronic injury.

What makes construction workers vulnerable to mental health issues?

• A macho culture where workers are told to ‘harden up’.
• Work stress due to boom-and-bust cycles.
• Drug and alcohol use amongst workers.
• Pressure from demanding customers - everyone thinks they know better than the builder’.
• Pressure from high-risk individuals participating in the industry.
• Trades being undervalued career path.
• Intergenerational workers on sites together.
• Intolerance of diversity.

WARNING SIGNS

• Change in behaviour - easy going / angry and agitated easily
• Isolating oneself - not wanting to talk
• Being distant - not responding to texts etc
• Finding it hard to cope with everyday things
• Lack of concentration
• Struggling to finish tasks
• Using alcohol and drugs as a way of coping
• Coming to work late
• Not coming to work at all.

The list can go on and on. However, once a mental health issue is recognised you can then get the help required to ensure that everyone goes home to our friends and family every day.

You don't have to be a mental health worker to help someone who is struggling!

Prevention and help

• Open up the lines of communication and take the time to speak with workers about the things that are taking place in and outside of work.
• If you see someone exhibiting any of the warning signs, take the time to speak with them or discuss it with their supervisor. Have a follow up conversation to make sure it is being taken seriously.
• Ensure your workers are aware of resources provided by you're the company and how to access them.
• Provide information to local and national health and suicide hot Iine phone number and websites.
• If you are feeling suicidal, seek help!

Have you noticed your colleague with increased fear, anxiety, anger or irritability? Has their behaviour changed? Simple steps that can help:

• Think about the right place and right time to start the conversation. A park, over a coffee, off-site, somewhere private.
• Start a conversation with, “How are you doing?”, “What’s happening in your world?”, “You don’t seem yourself?”
• Listen, don’t rush them and let them know you are concerned. If they are upset or angry—stay calm and don’t take it personally.
• Enquire “How can I help?”, “What would be a good first step?” for example, their GP, family, whanau, church leaders, friends — can you help to connect them?
• Whatever the outcome, follow up with them in a couple of days.
• Remember to be empathetic, approachable and willing to listen. Do not be judgemental.
• In an emergency, dial 111 if you think they, or someone else is at risk of immediate harm.

And remember: You do not need to have all the answers.

Q and A

• What are your job and/or life responsibilities that cause stress?
• Do you know of any support services, and how to access them?
• Have you observed or spoken with co-workers who need help?
• Are you aware of the mental health services your company provides and how to access them?

Further resources

Where to get help

• Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason.
• Mates in Construction: https://mates.net.nz, 0800 111 315
• Mental Health Foundation: https://www.allright.org.nz
• Lifeline: https://www.lifeline.org.nz, 0800 543 354, or text HELP to 4357
• Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 or 0508 TAUTOKO (24/7). This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends.