Mental Health in the Asbestos Industry
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Mental Health Awareness
Welcome to our dedicated space for mental health awareness within the asbestos industry. Understanding the unique pressures of this field, we’re committed to providing support, education, and advocacy for the well-being of our team and the wider community.
At WestCross, the health and well-being of our team is a priority. We actively encourage our lads to come forward and talk, it’s vital they feel.
Casey Cross– Director
A support network
Mental Health First Aiders
WestCross Environmental Services is not just a leader in asbestos removal; we’re pioneers in championing mental health. With accredited mental health first aiders like Ashley Cross and Billy Ive, we ensure that every member of our team knows they have support.
Mental Health in UK Construction: The Statistics
In the UK construction sector, where the workforce is predominantly male, the rate of suicide among men is three times higher than the national average for male suicide. This stark reality underscores a critical need for support and intervention.
Deaths
Two people working in the construction industry die every day as a result of suicide
Suicidal
98% of have felt overwhelmed and 26% of those have had suicidal thoughts
Stress
48% of people have taken time off work due to unmanageable stress.
*Stats taken from Mates in Mind Charity website
Men's Mental Health Awareness Month- November
Poor mental health can affect people of any gender, but mental health outcomes for men and women aren’t equal. Due to societal expectations of masculinity, men are less likely to talk to others about their feelings, so they suffer in silence. In a male dominated industry, you can see how mental health in the asbestos industry is such a big problem.
Mental Health
A collection of resources
Take a look at this collection of resources we have found online. Please share, please pass on to others who might benefit from seeing this at a time of need.
Conversation Guide
Conversation Guide: A guide to talking about suicide which has been shared by Mental Health UK
Mental Health Tips
Protect your mental health tips guide was produced by The Mental Health Foundation
Frequently Asked Questions
Around mental health in the asbestos industry
We hope this answer your questions, for more support please visit one of the websites below.
WestCross offers comprehensive support, including access to mental health first aiders and professional counselling services for all of our team.
Look out for changes in behaviour, withdrawal from social interaction, or decreased productivity. When in doubt, the best approach is to kindly and privately ask how they're doing.
Reach out to our mental health first aiders or your GP, and remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.