Mental Health Blog – Mental Health & Addiction

March 27, 2025

Working in the construction/drilling industry is one of the toughest jobs out there! It demands long hours, feeling isolated through working away from home, physical exertion and lots of dirt. However, the biggest challenge often isn’t the hard labour, it’s the mental grind that comes with this type of lifestyle, which can ultimately result in addiction issues.

Spending weeks on the road, away from family, coupled with constant pressure to perform and the physical demands, can really wear on your mental health. Yet, in an industry where toughness is seen as a fundamental requirement, it’s easy to ignore the stress building up inside that can in turn lead to addiction.

It’s easy to feel isolated – especially when you’re out in the middle of nowhere, working late into the night, or grabbing a quick nap between shifts. Throw in a couple of high-stress deadlines or unexpected site challenges and mental fatigue can quickly sneak up. One of the toughest aspects of the job for many is probably the travel and isolation from home life. Always on the move, bouncing from one job site to another, missing family dinners, birthdays and simple home comforts can leave you feeling disconnected.

Through time, the emotional separation can take its toll. Long stretches of isolation, paired with the stresses of the job, can contribute to feelings of depression or anxiety, which can in turn ultimately lead to addiction.

The travelling working lifestyle means it’s often tempting to hit the bar, crack open a cold one or even take some drugs to unwind. While a certain cohort now take solace in the gym, in the pool or taking themselves for a run after work to destress, there is still a certain machismo and traditional view that the best way to relax is with alcohol. But using alcohol or drugs to cope with stress and exhaustion can rapidly become a harmful and damaging habit. Over time, it takes its toll on your body and mind, impacting everything in your relationships to your performance on the job.

Addiction is a mental health issue. Whether it’s drinking, smoking, or taking drugs, it may provide some temporary release from reality, but eventually, it only digs the hole deeper. If you’re not taking care of your body, it becomes much harder to take care of your mind.

Neglecting your mental health will invariably have serious consequences, both on and off the job. Mistakes will more than likely happen which may result in accidents. If your head’s not in the game, you could be putting yourself and your colleagues at risk.

It’s OK to Not Be OK!

Here are a few tips that could make a difference when dealing with addiction:

1. Talk about it: This might be the hardest step, but it’s the most important. You’re not alone – chances are, others are feeling the same way.
2. Stay active: Even just a 20-minute walk can make a difference.
3. Set boundaries: Take time to rest and look after yourself.
4. Seek professional help: Confidential help is often just a phone call away.
5. Stay connected: Stay in touch with family and friends.

Asking for help for addiction isn’t a weakness – it’s a sign of strength. Drillers are tough, but even the toughest need support every now and then.

Reach out, get active, ask for help and keep drilling!

Author: Wendy Doherty, BDA Health & Safety Sub-committee