One of the arguably few bright spots this year has been a renewed interest in how support programs can make life less painful—even considerably better—for those in need of assistance and understanding.

Today, 10 September, is RUOK Day, the official day for considering the mental wellbeing of our friends and colleagues. It’s an excellent time to consider the positive effect you can have on a friend, colleague or family member by taking four simple steps:

  1. Ask
  2. Listen
  3. Encourage action
  4. Check in

And there’s help available for each step on the RUOK website.

Master Builders’ OHS department reminds you that, as a member, you have access to the OHS team to assist in a crisis situation, and round-the-clock access to the resources available on our OHS Resource page. There are resources that can help you implement a range of occupational health and safety issues before they reach a crisis point in your business. Those subjects include consulting with employees about your policy and procedures on topics such as anxiety and mental health.

The OHS resources pages here include practical advice on ways to approach your next Mental Health Toolbox Meeting with your employees. Toolbox meetings give you and your colleagues the time to table any concerns and find ways together to create the right culture around mental health in your workplace.  It’s in our industry’s best interest to have employees feel safe and supported as they build Australia’s fastest-growing state.

They can help you understand your options and receive the much-needed support during a very difficult and sensitive time.

As part of our commitment to supporting our members,  and in light of recent government announcements and the current circumstances in Victoria, Master Builders Victoria has made our upcoming Building Resilience webinar free to members.  Presented by psychologist Christopher Shen, this live webinar will teach practical skills and resources to develop resilience and diminish stress, anxiety, fatigue, and burnout during these uncertain and difficult times.

When: 9-10.30am, Friday 18 September
Where: online
Cost: Free to members; non-members $50

Register now.

Also, at this time of uncertainty, we encourage members to take advantage of other support resources available to them including:

If you have questions or concerns of your own or on behalf of a friend or colleague, contact the OHS department on (03) 9411 4555 for assistance in finding the best resources for you.