Episode 18 - The need for Health to match Safety - Jennie Armstrong

Episode 18 - The need for Health to match Safety - Jennie Armstrong

Author: Stuart Wallis October 29, 2025 Duration: 41:50

Links

https://constructionhealth.co.uk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniearmstrong/


Keywords

mental health, anxiety, depression, work, well-being, open conversations, diagnosis, support


Summary

In this conversation, Stuart discusses his experiences with mental health challenges with Jennie Armstrong, Founder of Construction Health & Wellbeing Ltd.


The conversation covers many areas of health - physical and mental - including anxiety and depression. They reflect on the importance of work in maintaining Stuart's mental well-being and emphasize the need for open conversations about mental health, particularly in the workplace.


Takeaways

Stuart was diagnosed with anxiety and depression.

Jennie discusses the need for Health given equal billing in the budget as safety.

Jennie felt that Tideway Tunnels wanted to be different and set new standards with the Epic Induction.

Stuart's job has been a crucial factor in maintaining his sanity.

He reflects on the societal expectations around mental health.

There is a need for more open conversations about mental health.

Stuart felt relief upon receiving his diagnosis.

He questions whether others are truly okay in their mental health.

Work can be both a source of stress and a support system.

The stigma around mental health can prevent people from seeking help.

Conversations about mental health should be normalized.

Support from colleagues can make a significant difference.


Sound bites

"I felt relief of being diagnosed."

"But I love my job, my job's keeping me sane."

"Are you sure you're all right?"


Stuart Wallis has spent a career at the intersection of people and industry, and in Hard Hats and Head Space with Stuart Wallis, he brings that entire world to the microphone. This isn't a theoretical discussion; it's a series of real conversations drawn from Stuart's own network, featuring guests whose experience is as diverse as it is deep. You'll hear from figures in construction and recruitment, sure, but also from unexpected quarters like egg-farming and publishing. Each episode digs into the tangible connections between work, personal wellbeing, and the dynamics of the modern workforce, deliberately sidestepping fluffy jargon and corporate speak. The discussions are grounded, often challenging, and designed to pull practical insight from every story. By focusing on the human elements behind the job titles, this podcast reveals how different paths can offer surprising lessons for leadership, resilience, and finding purpose. Tune in for candid talks that feel more like a coffee with seasoned professionals than a formal interview, always aiming to leave you with a clearer perspective on your own work and headspace.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 26

Hard Hats and Head Space with Stuart Wallis
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