Mental health is a vital part of our overall wellbeing, but it’s often the aspect that’s the hardest to talk about. To better understand what it means to be a Mental Health First Aider, we sat down with James Kean, one of Leighs’ original Mental Health First Aiders.
Through his experience, we explore how Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training breaks down barriers, encourages open conversations, and creates a community where everyone - regardless of their role, background, or personal experience - feels heard and supported.
The Power of Honest Conversations
Reflecting on his MHFA training, James highlighted the importance of being genuine. "You can't fake caring about mental health," he said. Authenticity is key in these conversations. What might feel like a casual chat to one person could be a lifeline to another. "Even the conversations you don't realise are mental health conversations, might be exactly that for someone else."
MHFA training teaches participants how to recognise when someone might be struggling and how to respond in a supportive way. It's not about providing therapy but about offering a simple question, “Are you okay?” and a listening ear. It’s about guiding people toward further help if needed. "You’re not going to solve everything in one conversation," James shared, “but the first step is being there and letting the person know they’re not alone.”
Changing Attitudes in Construction
Historically, the construction industry has had a "harden up" culture, but things are changing. James noted that there’s a growing awareness around mental health. "There’s a big generational push to reduce the stigma around mental health," he said. This shift is happening across all levels of the industry, from subcontractors to leadership.
Conversations about mental health are slowly becoming more commonplace. "People now recognise that mental health is something we all experience" James added. While it might not come up in every toolbox meeting, the cultural shift is clear - people feel more comfortable asking if someone’s okay and are more aware of the importance of looking out for each other.
Support Systems and Escalation
Leighs provides a strong support network for our MHFAs, who meet regularly and support each other. This is crucial, as being a Mental Health First Aider comes with its own challenges. "We need to look out for each other as much as we do for the wider Leighs community," James said.
When escalating a situation, James and other Mental Health First Aiders follow a careful process, always with the individual's consent and on their behalf, before suggesting resources and support such as our EAP (Employee Assistance Programme) partner, TELUS Health or one of the other support avenues. While Mental Health First Aiders can provide resources, it’s ultimately up to individuals to take the next step. However, James emphasised the importance of ongoing support and checking back in. He says that even knowing help is available can be a quiet reassurance for many.
What Managers Can Do?
Managers are crucial in supporting Mental Health First Aiders and promoting a mentally healthy workplace. They can openly encourage discussions about mental health, promote services like EAP (TELUS Health), 1737, or “Raise” for Southern Cross Members, and ensure there’s a culture where asking for help is okay.
"Managers need to understand the role of MHFA and normalise discussions around mental health in the workplace," James said. It’s about creating an environment where mental health is seen as part of the job, and everyone feels comfortable speaking up.
Providing flexibility, regularly checking in with team members, and recognising the efforts of Mental Health First Aiders can make a significant impact. "Being proactive about mental health isn't just a responsibility; it’s part of building a strong, caring team."
As with everyone, Managers should consider doing the Mental Health First Aid training as it gives everyone some great tools and awareness.
Leading the Way in Construction
Sue Jensen, GM of People and Culture, says, “Our commitment to offering Mental Health First Aid training, raising awareness, and creating support systems demonstrates our dedication to looking after our people.
This focus on mental health and wellbeing is part of our larger vision of making Leighs and construction a better place, where the wellbeing and growth of our team are at the heart of everything we do.”
Creating a Supportive Environment
At Leighs, we’re building a culture where everyone feels supported, whether in the office or on-site. "It's what you don't say that says the most," James reflected, reminding us that being there for a colleague, friend, or family member doesn’t always require perfect words. Often, it's about showing empathy, creating a safe space, and being mindful of the support someone might need.
Mental Health First Aid training empowers all of us to be there for each other, whether at work, with family, or in everyday life. It’s about having the skills to recognise when someone might be struggling and offering them a way forward.
The impact of the MHFA programme at Leighs has been significant. James noted that the presence of trained individuals has raised awareness throughout the company. “People now know there’s someone they can talk to. It might not come up daily, but there’s a culture that says it’s okay to ask if someone’s alright.”
Together, we’re creating a community where everyone feels valued, listened to, and supported. Mental health affects us all, and at Leighs, we’re leading the way by ensuring that help is always available. As James said, "You never know when that casual conversation might be the one that makes all the difference."
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