Stress Awareness

Stress awareness, Coping mechanisms to deal with stress whilst you are on the tools. 
The construction industry is known for its fast-paced, high-pressure work environments, where tight deadlines, heavy workloads, and long working hours are the norm. For traders working on a self-employed basis with and without a team, these stresses are unfortunately amplified. These conditions can lead to stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues for construction workers. This is why stress awareness within the construction industry is crucial. In recent years we have seen attitudes towards mental health shifting, and we have seen the rise of organizations dedicated to supporting traders such as the Lighthouse Club and Andy's Man Club 

The Lighthouse Club is a charity that provides financial and emotional support to construction workers and their families in the UK and Ireland. They also offer various training courses, including mental health first aid courses, aimed at increasing awareness and providing support for those struggling with mental health issues. Their courses are designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to recognize the signs of mental health issues, provide initial support, and guide individuals towards further professional help. These courses are great for organisations and individuals alike. The courses are designed to allow individuals to get in front of mental health awareness before it becomes a problem. Most of these courses are free and equip trainees with the knowledge and techniques needed.  

Similarly, Andy's Man Club is a support group for men who are struggling with mental health issues or are simply looking for a safe place to talk, providing this safe space for men to meet and openly and honestly about their experiences has been a great success. Their weekly meetings take place in various locations across the UK, providing men with a supportive community to turn to when they need it most. A lot of their attendees have found great support from these groups and have gone on to raise money for the group.  
 
There are many tools that can be used both on and off-site to manage stress and improve mental well-being. Here are some techniques that can help construction workers deal with stress on site: 

Deep breathing:  Taking a few deep breaths might sound like a cliché however, a few deep breaths can help reduce stress and calm the mind. Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this for a few minutes until you feel more relaxed. Doing this throughout the day will help to reduce the build-up of stress throughout the day.  

 
Mindfulness:  Mindfulness involves focusing on the present moment and observing your thoughts and feelings without judgment. You can practice mindfulness by paying attention to your surroundings, your breathing, and your body sensations. This can help you feel more centered and calmer. There are many organisations that can teach you techniques to help you listen to your body without prejudice which will in turn help with any build-up of stress.  

Exercise:  Exercise can help reduce stress and improve your mood. Even a short walk or stretching break can help release tension and boost your energy. Exercise causes a release of endorphins in the brain which can help with overall mood and stress levels.  

Taking breaks: Taking regular breaks can help reduce stress and prevent burnout. Try to take short breaks throughout the day to rest, eat, or do something enjoyable. This way you are not allowing a build-up of stress before you can take some time to practice some of the techniques outlined in this blog.  

Time management:  Effective time management can help reduce stress by helping you prioritize tasks and avoid the last-minute rush. Make a to-do list or schedule your day to help you stay organized and focused. There are lots of apps that can help organise your time and day-to-day activities.  

Seeking support: Don't be afraid to reach out to colleagues or managers for support if you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed. talking to someone about your problems can be incredibly beneficial. This may involve speaking to a manager about workload or deadlines or talking to family and friends about personal issues. If speaking to someone face-to-face feels daunting, there are a variety of helplines and support groups available for individuals to access, such as the Samaritans or Mind. 

Remember that everyone experiences stress differently, and what works for one person may not work for another. Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you. 
 
Stress awareness within the construction industry is crucial for improving the mental health and wellbeing of workers. The shift in attitudes towards mental health and the rise of organizations such as the Lighthouse Club and Andy's Man Club are positive steps towards creating a culture where individuals feel comfortable seeking support when they need it. By utilizing coping mechanisms and seeking support when necessary, individuals can better manage stress levels and improve their mental wellbeing. To learn more about the support and training courses available, visit the Lighthouse Club website or attend one of Andy's Man Club's weekly meetings.