Mental health

What is mental health?

Our mental health, like our physical health, changes all the time. One day we can feel low in mood; the next we may feel more positive and in control. That fluctuation is normal. But when difficult feelings persist, or start to affect how we work, sleep or relate to others, it's worth getting support.

Mental and physical health are closely connected and each can affect the other. Stress, anxiety and low mood can trigger physical symptoms - headaches, muscle tension, digestive issues, a racing heart - just as physical problems can wear down emotional wellbeing. Looking after one supports the other.

Poor mental health is not a sign of weakness. It's a common experience that can affect anyone at any time, and with the right support, recovery is possible.

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Mental health topics we can help with

Ben provides dedicated support across the key mental health areas affecting people in the automotive industry. Find the topic that feels most relevant to you:

• Stress and pressure - when everyday demands feel like more than you can cope with.
• Anxiety - understanding symptoms, causes and how to manage anxiety.
• Depression - support and resources for low mood and depression.
• Sleep - guidance for shift workers and anyone struggling to get enough rest.

Not sure where to start? Take our free mental health self-assessment for personalised recommendations based on how you're feeling.

Mental health in the automotive industry

Working in automotive can be rewarding, but it comes with real pressures - long shifts, short-staffed teams, physical demands, customer expectations and financial worries can all take their toll on wellbeing.

Working in automotive can be rewarding, but the pressures are real and well-documented. Ben's research on mental health in the automotive industry reveals that 99.8% of workers were affected by at least one health or wellbeing issue last year - with stress, poor sleep and anxiety topping the list.

The automotive industry is predominantly male, and men are statistically less likely to seek help. If you're a man who's been pushing things down, our men's mental health guide covers how mental health can show up differently and how to get support.

If any of this sounds familiar, you're not on your own. Ben exists specifically for people in the automotive industry, past and present. That means we understand the pressures of your working life in a way a generic service simply can't - and everything we offer is completely free. No referral needed, and no waitlist for most of our services.

Signs your mental health may need attention

It can be hard to notice when things are starting to affect your mental wellbeing - especially when you're busy, or used to pushing through. Here are some signs to look out for:

• Feeling low, empty or hopeless most of the time
• Losing interest in things you normally enjoy
• Struggling to concentrate or make decisions at work
• Sleep problems - sleeping much more or less than usual
• Feeling anxious, irritable or on edge much of the time
• Withdrawing from friends, family or colleagues
• Feeling overwhelmed by pressure that won't ease off
• Using alcohol or other substances to cope
• Physical symptoms with no obvious medical cause - headaches, stomach problems, fatigue
• These signs can look different in men - irritability and overworking are often more visible than low mood. Read more about men's mental health and what to look out for.

If several of these feel familiar and have lasted more than a couple of weeks, reaching out sooner rather than later makes a real difference.

How Ben can support your mental health

We have a wide range of mental health support options - so you can find what works best for you.

• SilverCloud - digital wellbeing programmes - a free, 24/7 digital mental health platform offering CBT-based programmes for anxiety, depression, stress and sleep. Available to everyone in the automotive industry using access code ben.
• Talking therapies and counselling - one-to-one support from a trained professional, at no cost to you
• Life coaching - practical, goals-focused support to help you move forward.
• Free helpline: 08081 311 333 - call us any time for confidential support and guidance.
• Mental health self-assessment - take our short quiz to receive personalised guidance on the support that's right for you.
• Men's mental health - support specifically for men in the automotive industry, including advice on talking to someone for the first time.

No judgement, no pressure - just practical support from people who understand your industry.

Not sure where to start?

Take our short mental health self-assessment. It takes around five minutes and gives you personalised guidance on the free support available from Ben - from self-help tools and guided programmes through to coaching and counselling.

Take the mental health self-assessment.

Mental health and money

Money worries and mental health are closely linked. Financial stress can make it harder to cope - and struggling with your mental health can make managing money feel impossible. If you're dealing with both, support is available for each.

Read our guide to money and mental health.

Related topics

Ben supports a broad range of health and wellbeing issues. These topics often connect closely to mental health:

• Burnout - recognising the signs and how to recover
• Mental health tips - practical ways to look after your wellbeing
• Tips to strengthen your wellbeing
• Using breathing to reduce stress and anxiety