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M ental health, or more specifically the stigma attached to it, remains a massive concern for construction and its associated industries. Despite an increase in awareness and the roll-out of marketing campaigns, it appears the vast majority of men still haven’t embraced the idea that ‘it’s good to talk’. Sadly, as a male- dominated industry construction is the rule, not the exception. The statistics don’t make for pretty reading. Almost 50% of long term absences from work are due to mental health issues. The prevalence of mental illness in Northern Ireland is 25% higher than in England, and when compared with 17 other random countries we have the second highest rate of mental illness. Despite the scale of the problem, only a tiny percentage feel comfortable enough
CEF MEMBER CTS TEAM-UP WITH LOCAL CHARITY ACTION MENTAL HEALTH (NI) TO RAISE AWARENESS AND PROMOTE NEW INITIATIVES... TIMEFOR ACTION
to take the first step and ask for help. For most men suffering in silence is still preferable to facing the stigma. It’s a perception that has to change and one of the main reasons why CTS formalised their relationship with Action Mental Health (Northern Ireland) to corporate partner. “I think the stigma comes down to stereotype,” explained CTS Managing Director, Connaire McGreevy. “Men are meant to be these macho, strong individuals, although I do believe that the stigma is gradually being broken as more people open up and more people raise awareness. Around three years ago we reached out to Action Mental Health. We were aware of them and had supported some past initiatives, but felt it was the right time to formalise it at that stage. A number of our senior management team have family members or friends that have
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