3 Ways to Improve Mental Health in the Trades

The skilled trades have many demands, including long working hours away from home in challenging conditions (think outdoor heat and below-zero weather). Along with the physical aspects of the job, mental stress can also take a toll on an employee’s mental health, leading to a higher incidence of mental health-related issues, increasing accidents, absenteeism, depression, and suicide.
 

Mental health conditions can be a hidden illness, with 1 out of 5 American adults experiencing a mental health issue\ each year. In addition, 1 in 5 also have a co-occurring substance use disorder. Skilled trades employers should take this issue very seriously by learning to define the mental health spectrum and identify signs and symptoms to be aware of.

1. Build Awareness of the Issue

The first way to improve mental health in your business is to build awareness of the issue. Train your managers on the signs and symptoms and offer training to help develop your managers’ soft skills. Create an open culture where employees are encouraged to share their stresses and talk openly and honestly about any obstacles they face on the job or in their personal lives.

2. Give Appropriate Accommodations

Employees who are dealing with any mental or physical disabilities should receive appropriate accommodations. While flexible schedules can be tricky in the trades, encourage breaks and allow leaves of absence and sick days to support their mental, physical, and overall well-being.

3. Provide Access to Care for Mental or Physical Illnesses

Lastly, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can assist employees and family members as a first line of contact with stressful life circumstances. These hotlines are confidential third-party vendors that employers can contract with to offer resources to their employees for various work, personal, and health-related concerns. Along with the EAP, your employer health plan needs to cover mental health and substance use disorders. Reach out to your health carrier or insurance agent for options.

Additional Blog Resources:

Safety Beyond the Site: Mental Health in the Construction Industry

Overdose Deaths in Construction: A Crisis Demanding Action

Tips to Help Avoid Employee Burnout