Workers in construction face an especially high level of physical and mental strain, and they can burn out if they do not take care of themselves.
The National Center for Construction Education and Research shares the following strategies to help construction workers stay healthy by caring for their bodies and minds.
- Establish a routine at work and at home. Eating at irregular times and going to bed at different times every night can throw off the body’s natural sleep cycle. Sticking to a daily routine helps get the body into a normal rhythm, so workers sleep better and are less drowsy. It also ensures workers are setting aside time for meals and self-care.
- Stretch before and after work. Stretching is one of the most effective ways to improve job-site safety. Even a five-minute stretching set a few times a day can lower workers’ risk of getting hurt on the job. It also helps promote flexibility and agility.
- Have a weekly movie night. Movies relax the body and mind and give workers the opportunity to sit down and give their body a break, whether they are watching a movie alone, with friends or with family.
- Eat a nice meal. Construction workers often eat quickly so they can get back to the job, so it can be rewarding to occasionally take the time to have a nice, sit-down meal, whether at home or at a restaurant. It is also crucial for workers to maintain a balanced diet to keep their bodies and minds healthy.
- Hold a crew happy hour or game night. When workers believe they can trust each other, accidents are less likely to occur and workplace stress is lower. A happy hour can be an effective way to build trust and camaraderie and celebrate successes. Holding a game night also can be a great way for workers to relax and bond while improving problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
- Spend personal time outdoors. Spending time outside for work is different than spending time outside in nature, which can be extremely relaxing for the body and mind. Many construction workers work in urban areas, and escaping for a day trip to a nature preserve or park can help reduce stress, muscle tension and risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Keep work and home separate. Like workers in other industries, construction workers fall into the habit of answering work-related emails and phone calls when they are at home or sometimes bring personal issues to work. Keeping a healthy balance can help workers reduce stress and ensure they take time away from work to recharge.
- Continue to learn. Learning new job skills allows construction workers to grow their career opportunities and keep up with technology, boosting their confidence. Learning new skills for fun outside of work can help construction workers recharge during their time off while keeping their minds and bodies active.
