June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, and here at Mader Group, we know that mental health is just as critical as a proper torque spec. You wouldn’t run a machine without checking the vitals, so why should we treat ourselves differently?
Over 6 million men suffer from depression each year in the U.S. alone, but it often goes undiagnosed or unnoticed, especially in trades like ours (Source: ADAA.org). The pressure to “tough it out” or “just get on with it” runs deep in the workshop culture, but that mindset can hide issues that need real attention.
What Does Mental Health Struggle Look Like in the Field?
According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, symptoms of mental health disorders in men don’t always show up the way people expect. In our world, it might look like:
- Spending longer hours onsite just to avoid going home
- Random headaches, gut issues, or body pain that won’t go away
- Getting snappy, aggressive, or irritated over small things
- Feeling restless, low on energy, or just not yourself
- Risky behavior on or off the job
- Turning to the pub or other substances to cope
The warning signs aren’t always obvious—but they’re real.
Real Talk: How Our Mechanics Handle Tough Days
We asked a few of our Mader field mechanics how they deal with the mental grind of tough jobs and long shifts. Here’s what they had to say:
Sha H. | Underground Field Service Mechanic – East Division
“Managing stress and the hard days depends on your personality. Find your strengths and play with them. For me, having a good support person makes all the difference.”
Josh D.| Field Service Mechanic – East Division
“Sometimes when I’m getting beat up by a job, I’ll take a minute and have a snack and a drink and evil eye the machine. When I take the 10-minute break, I usually come back with success instead of anger or the feeling of defeat. I don’t let my emotions control my life, I control them.”
Check In — With Yourself and Your Mates
Mental health doesn’t always show up like a busted part — it can be subtle. This Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re reminding crews to check in. A quick chat, a text, or just listening without judgment can make a big difference.
If you’re not feeling like yourself, don’t brush it off. Talk to a mate, a family member, or a pro. Real strength is speaking up.
Resources
Whether you’re a seasoned Mader mechanic or a new mate just discovering this, we’re here to help you navigate the mental minefield.
Check out Man Therapy — practical support made for men, by men.