The first half of the session was a panel discussion, where I asked a series of questions to get the conversation flowing. Each panellist brought something unique to the table – from clinical expertise to lived experience – and their openness really set the tone for the rest of the event. After the break, we moved into a Q & A session that allowed the audience to get involved.

The main takeaway was simple but vital: we all have mental health.

Just like physical health, it’ s something we need to take care of – not just when things go wrong, but every day. The problem is, too often we ignore it.

And, a big part of the discussion centred around how we may have overcomplicated wellbeing. Yes, there’ s a place for therapy, mindfulness apps, and corporate wellness schemes. But at the core, the principles are quite straightforward...

We looked at some fundamental questions:

• Why are people more stressed than ever?

• Why are their“ stress buckets” constantly full?

• Why is burnout so common?

• How do anxiety and depression build up to the point of psychosis or irrational behaviour?

For many people, it comes down to being stuck in a cycle of overwork, poor sleep, unhealthy habits, and lack of genuine downtime. Too many of us are chasing the next sale, grinding away at the desk, dealing with constant demands – and it takes a toll.

Get outside. Go for a walk with your family. Watch a film with your partner. Eat well. Sleep enough. Listen to music. Breathe. These simple things can make a big difference.

We also delved into deeper topics – including trauma, fear, and resilience. We explored how our upbringing and past experiences

shape how we deal with stress today. Even the clothes we wear can influence our mood and how we carry ourselves. One of the most sobering parts of the session was the conversation around suicide, particularly among men in construction and related trades. The statistics are heartbreaking, but more importantly, they’ re preventable.

We discussed what warning signs to look out for – in colleagues, friends, or loved ones. Things like withdrawal, mood swings, lack of motivation, or

changes in routine can all point to someone struggling. The key is to create an environment where people feel safe to talk – and to know where to point them for help when they do.

At Elmhurst Windows, and in my wider work across the fenestration sector, I’ ve seen firsthand the pressure people face.

I took over our family business from my father and have been part of this industry for decades.

I also have a deep personal interest in psychology, which I weave into the sales training and seminars I deliver. Over time, I’ ve come to realise that no amount of commercial success matters if we’ re not looking after ourselves and each other.

Thursday was just the beginning. The feedback we received was incredible – people felt heard, supported, and more informed. But more importantly, they left with practical tools and a renewed perspective. Whether it’ s a one-off workshop, a tailored training programme, or ongoing mental health support, there is always help available. And while our focus is on the fenestration and construction sectors, these conversations apply across the board.

Find out more at: www. richardabrahams. co. uk. To discuss any of the above, you can email Richard directly at richard @ elmhurst-windows. co. uk or call him on 07779 272135