“I felt like a weight had been lifted. It helped me feel more positive again.”
To mark World Mental Health Day on Saturday 10 October 2026, a PTSG colleague has kindly shared how asking for help led to reassurance, practical assistance and continuing support.
After the colleague spoke with their manager, Terry Wilcock, PTSG’s Group Health and Wellbeing Director, called that same day to listen, understand what they were experiencing and discuss the help available.
“The people supporting me helped me get through and showed me that support was there right away. They cared about what I was going through, and what I’m still going through. They are still supporting me.”
World Mental Health Day takes place every year on 10 October. It creates an important opportunity to talk openly about mental health, challenge stigma and ensure people know where they can find support.
The 2026 theme is “Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change.” It highlights the importance of listening to people with personal experience and allowing what they tell us to shape better understanding, decisions and support.
This colleague’s experience brings that theme to life. A real voice was heard, people responded with care and positive change followed.
Across PTSG, dedicated wellbeing leadership, more than 100 trained Mental Health First Aiders and a confidential 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme help colleagues access support. The aim is straightforward: nobody should feel that they have to face a difficult time alone.
This work has also received national recognition. Terry is shortlisted for the PFM Unsung Hero Award and is a finalist for Mental Health & Wellbeing Champion of the Year at the Construction News Workforce Awards. PTSG’s Partners in Wellbeing programme is shortlisted for Mental Health & Wellbeing Initiative of the Year.
The most important measure, however, is the difference this support makes to individuals.
“If anyone else is struggling and thinking about not asking for help, please remember there is support from PTSG.”
Read more about PTSG’s approach to health and wellbeing and learn more about World Mental Health Day.
Mental Health UK also provides a practical guide to talking to someone about mental health.
Finding help
- NHS urgent mental health support: Call 111 and select the mental health option. If somebody is in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E.
- Samaritans: Call 116 123 free, at any time.
- Shout: Text SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential, 24-hour text support.
- Mind: Call 0300 123 3393 or visit mind.org.uk for mental health information and guidance.
- CALM: Call 0800 58 58 58 or visit thecalmzone.net.
- Mental Health Foundation: Visit mentalhealth.org.uk for information, practical advice and self-help resources.
- ANDYSMANCLUB: Free, confidential, peer-led support groups for men aged 18 and over. Meetings take place nationwide every Monday at 7.00pm, excluding bank holidays. Find your nearest group at andysmanclub.co.uk/groups.
The colleague’s identity has been withheld to protect their privacy. Their words are shared with their full permission.
