Tough Job. Tough Days. You’re Not Alone
Do you feel like you:
- Can’t switch off after shift; going over and over the same thoughts?
- Are jumpy, short-tempered, snapped at mates for no big reason?
- Have trouble sleeping. Nausea, headaches, constant tension?
- Are constantly unhappy / sad / angry etc?
You are not alone
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) reports that:
- 87% of UK construction workers experienced anxiety
- 70% experienced depression
- 97% experienced stress
- 96% experienced fatigue
- 95% experienced poor concentration
- 91% felt overwhelmed
- 86% experienced a lack of self-confidence
- 26% had suicidal thoughts
What you can do today (self-support)
- Take a walk, leave the tools behind for a minute
- Breathe in for 4, hold 1, out for 6 (repeat a few times)
- Drink water, eat something solid
- Switch off phone for 30 mins before bed
What you can do today (support from others)
- Ask co-worker if they fancy a brew – talk (about anything if you don’t feel you can share how you feel)
- Call / text a helpline
- Talk to co-workers, family members, friends
Common Questions
Will it affect my job if I talk about how I feel?
Support isn’t about getting you benched, it’s about getting you back to feeling like you can do your job properly, safely.
What if I don’t want to talk?
There’s often text support, live chat, anonymous apps. Find what feels less awkward.
How do I help a mate without making it worse?
Small things help, asking, listening, sharing contact info. You don’t need solutions, just being there makes a difference.
Access support:
UK support is available from:
- Lighthouse Construction Industry Helpline (24/7): 0345 605 1956 (UK)
- Text “HARDHAT” to 85258, for one-to-one text support.
- NHS / GP, you can ask for mental health support locally.
- Samaritans (24/7): 116 123