At Metec, we specialise in cathodic protection – safeguarding critical infrastructure from corrosion. But this Mental Health Awareness Week, we’ve turned our focus to something just as vital: safeguarding the mental health of our team.

Working in a male-dominated industry often comes with unspoken pressure. Long hours, physically demanding work, and the “tough it out” mindset can lead many to suffer in silence. At Metec, we’re challenging that narrative.

Why Mental Health Awareness Matters

Mental health affects everyone, but the statistics around men’s mental health are particularly concerning:

• Three times as many men die by suicide compared to women in the UK (ONS, 2023).
• Men aged 40 to 49 have the highest suicide rates.
• Only 36% of NHS talking therapy referrals are for men, showing many aren’t getting the support they need (NHS Digital, 2022).
• In male-dominated fields like construction and manufacturing, men are significantly more likely to experience poor mental health but less likely to speak up about it.

Ignoring mental health doesn’t just impact individuals – it affects workplace safety, productivity, and team morale. That’s why we’re committed to creating a workplace culture where mental wellbeing is prioritised.

Sparking the Conversation: “What Does Mental Health Mean to You?”

To mark Mental Health Awareness Week, we asked our team one simple question:

“What does mental health mean to you?”

We wrote it on our whiteboard and invited everyone to share their thoughts.

The answers were honest, varied, and often moving – from “self care” to “walking”. We’ll be sharing these powerful responses throughout the week across our platforms, along with photos from the activity.

This was more than a workplace exercise. It was a moment of connection. A reminder that everyone’s experience of mental health is different – and that every voice matters.

Building a Supportive Culture at Metec

Mental health isn’t just something we talk about once a year. We’re working towards a culture where it’s safe to speak up, check in, and support one another – whether that’s on-site, in the office, or out in the field.

We know there’s still work to do, but small actions lead to lasting change. That starts with openness, empathy, and respect.

Need Support?

If you or someone you know is struggling, there’s help available:

• Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7)
• Mind – Visit www.mind.org.uk
• CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – Call 0800 58 58 58 or visit www.thecalmzone.net

Let’s keep the conversation going – not just this week, but all year round.

At Metec, we’re protecting more than infrastructure. We’re supporting one another.