Tough enough to talk about mental health

We’re no strangers to tough conditions. We work through the heat, the cold and the grind to get the job done. But, there’s one battle a lot of us fight that doesn’t get talked about: mental health.

Let’s face it — mental health isn’t something that comes up when you’re hauling dirt across a jobsite. That’s why we’ve got to be tough enough to talk about it.

TAKE IT FROM ONE OF OUR VERY OWN FOREMEN, VIRGIL BRADBURY.

Virgil has been with Emery Sapp & Sons (ESS) for more than 25 years. From laborer to bridge crew and beyond, he’s been around the field a long time. From his experience, he’s learned how to work taking care of yourself and each other into the conversation.

“Talking about mental health and well-being is easy to add in the morning when you’re meeting before heading out on the site,” said Virgil. “If somebody is having an issue, you’re not pointing them out, but you’re still providing information about our resources. It could make them feel more open to talk with somebody about it.”

Virgil’s not wrong. ESS has resources like the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) in place for a reason. It’s a tool to help employee-owners and their families tackle whatever life throws at them.

A FEW WORDS OF WISDOM.

Finding your own way to take care of yourself and your family is half the battle. For Virgil, it’s all about routine. “Every day I wake up at 3:30 a.m. and stick to a routine of exercise, making breakfast, having a cup of coffee, and waking up the wife. It’s just something I do to help get motivated and not just get out of bed and head to the jobsite,” said Virgil. “It helps so I’m not in a rush and not thinking about work right when I get up.”

For those of you who hit the snooze button a few too many times, you’ll want to hear Virgil’s advice. “Get to work early. It gives time to joke around with the crew and gets everybody on the same page,” said Virgil. “Joking around and then transitioning into your tasks usually puts people in a good mood first thing in the morning. It helps set your game plan for the day so everyone is ready to go.”

Doing something as small as waking up earlier to get to the site can put you in the right headspace before you start your day. Take care of yourself in ways that matter the most.

“Whatever we can do to stay healthy and save money for the company adds to your ESOP when you’re ready to retire,” said Virgil.

YOU’VE GOT THIS.

Mental health isn’t just something we can read an article about and move on. If you’re feeling off or need somebody to talk to, you have options and resources available. September is Suicide Prevention Month — look out for your crew and use the resources available to take care of yourself.