Mental health has increasingly become a priority in today’s working environment. Many employers are now implementing initiatives and programmes to support the mental health of their teams, understanding that a healthy workforce is not only more resilient but also more productive. The link between employee well-being and business performance is well established.

The same considerations should apply within the Building Services sector. The work is often physically demanding and mentally taxing, with high-risk environments and tight deadlines being common. These pressures can significantly impact workers’ judgment, concentration, decision-making, and communication - factors that are critical to safety and performance. Without proper support, the risk of accidents, errors, and interpersonal conflicts increases.

At Watsons, the well-being of our employees is paramount. We have a range of approaches designed to ensure our staff have the tools they need to maintain a positive environment at work, including an Office Wellness Room, a Mental Health Awareness Board, designated mental health advisors within the senior leadership team and a clear mental health policy.

Every business is different, of course, and what works for one may not be right for another. It's important to recognise what the issues are and the range of options available to make sure the individual needs of an organisation’s employees are met.

Three Common Issues In Building Services

1. Physical demand and hazards  Workers often have to work long hours, in harsh weather conditions, with heavy equipment, and in dangerous situations. These factors can cause physical exhaustion, injuries, chronic pain, or exposure to harmful substances.
   
   
2. Job insecurity and instability Uncertainty in the industry, from fluctuating demand, seasonal changes, project delays, contract disputes, or layoffs, can cause financial stress, job dissatisfaction, or a lack of career advancement.
   
   
3. Culture and stigma There persists a culture of toughness, resilience, and self-reliance. These factors can create a stigma around mental health issues, where workers may feel ashamed, embarrassed, or perceived as weak for seeking help.

The Mental Health Awareness Board at the WBS office

Promoting Mental Health Awareness In The Building Services Industry

Employers and colleagues can all play a role in taking proactive steps towards creating a more supportive working environment for mental health.

Employers Can Help By:

• Providing regular and comprehensive training on mental health awareness, prevention, and intervention for workers and managers.
• Establishing a culture of respect, trust, and recognition, where workers are valued, appreciated, and rewarded for their contributions.
• Providing access to mental health resources and services, such as counselling, peer support, employee assistance programs, or wellness programs.
• Encouraging workers to seek help when they need it, and ensuring confidentiality, privacy, and non-discrimination.

Colleagues Can Help By:

• Recognising the signs and symptoms of mental health issues, such as mood changes, irritability, anxiety, sadness, hopelessness, or suicidal thoughts.
• Seeking help when they need it, from a trusted person, such as a friend, family member, coworker, manager, or professional.
• Encouraging coworkers to talk about how they are feeling, or seek out initiatives or help within and outside of the workplace

Mental health awareness is important for the Building Services sector, as it affects workers' safety, performance, and quality of life. By understanding the common mental health challenges and stressors that workers face, and by taking action to promote a positive and supportive work environment, employers and employees can improve their mental health and well-being and create a more productive and successful industry.