By Ryan Ogrizovich, Stevens Construction, Corp.
Mental health is a hot topic these days and it can bring up all kinds of reactions depending on who you talk to about it. That’s especially true in the construction trades, where conversations like this don’t always come easy. But no matter your perspective, one thing is certain: mental health affects every one of us.
Let’s try something together. Take a second and think about the phrase “mental health.”
What’s the very first thing that pops into your mind? The truth is, for a lot of us, our understanding of mental health isn’t always clear or complete. And even if your first thought is, “That doesn’t really apply to me,” I’d challenge you to think again. Because chances are, it does more than you realize.
According to the World Health Organization, mental health is our overall emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It shapes how we think, feel, and act. It also affects how we handle everyday stress, relate to others, and make decisions.
The key thing to remember is that mental health affects everyone. At every moment and in every stage of life.
If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that life is unpredictable. And in construction, that unpredictability feels like it’s waiting around every corner. Right alongside stress. Your mental health plays a role in every choice you make and every interaction you have throughout the day. On the job and off.
Now that we have a better understanding of mental health, let’s ask a different question. How does your mental health affect you daily?
And here’s a quick follow-up: What are you doing each day to take care of it?
If those questions got you thinking, or even left you unsure, that’s okay. Let’s walk through some simple, practical tips you can use to take care of yourself, so you can make better decisions, have stronger interactions, and show up as your best self. For you, your family, and your coworkers.
Tip #1: Move Your Body. Make it a point to move throughout the day. Even 10–15 minutes of walking or light stretching can boost your mood and help clear your mind.
Tip #2: Prioritize Sleep. Good, consistent sleep is essential. Quality rest helps regulate your mood, builds resilience to stress, and supports overall mental well-being.
Tip #3: Declutter. A clean, organized space can lead to a clearer mind and help you feel more focused and in control.
Tip #4: Stay Connected. Reach out to friends, family, or coworkers. Strong connections help keep you grounded.
Tip #5: Breathe and Reset. When feeling stressed or overwhelmed, pause and focus on your breathing. Try “box breathing”: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4, and hold again for 4. And if you can, step outside for fresh air.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, take time to focus on yourself and your well-being. Use these simple tips each day to support your mental health. It might make all the difference.
