Kanye West officially launched his bid for presidency this week and it was marred in controversy. Pretty soon after he took to Twitter, spoke about wanting to divorce his wife and wasn’t overly complimentary about his mother-in-law either.
West, his music and his clothes might not be your thing, and that’s fine, but he has also been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. His speech on stage that night was difficult to listen to and hard to watch but what it did offer was an insight into the ongoing mental health issues of one of the worlds most famous people.
You're probably asking yourself why this is relevant to you. Well, the construction industry is predominantly dominated by males and men aren't particularly great at talking. West may well have intended for it to be a launch for presidency, however farfetched that seems, but it was also a man up on stage opening up about his struggles in life.
Toughen up. Put on a brave face. Man up. Get over it. You'll be fine in the morning.
All phrases that I'm sure you've either heard or been told yourself and whilst you might think that it'll help, often it doesn't.
There have been great steps forward in making mental health awareness prevalent in our minds over recent years but the fact remains that men are three times more likely to commit suicide than women. And men aged 45-49 are statistically the most likely to take their own lives.
Talking is great. And helping your own mental health often starts with a conversion about how you're feeling. Whether that's to a friend over a drink, a chat in the van, on site or even if it's easier for you to speak to somebody over the phone, it all helps.
Even if you find it difficult to talk to a colleague or friend there are some great services out there who are there to provide you with the support that you need.
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) are one who specialise in helping people who are struggling with their mental health. Their helpline is open every day from 5pm through to midnight and if it's difficult for you talk over the phone, they offer a web chat service as well at the same time so you can message them through that.
The Construction Industry Helpline is another who can help you and your family if needed.
So if you are struggling with your mental health then there are places and people you can talk to to help. Don't suffer in silence.
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