Having a Support System Having a Support System

By Jennifer Gibbons

The outside power line industry can be a tricky trade for some line workers. Not only are the workers affected by the lifestyle of the trade, but the entire family can also be affected. We have a very rewarding trade, but it comes at a cost.

I married a Journeyman Lineman No one tells you in the beginning just how complicated things can get sometimes Your spouse may be in another state, working storm, or even working across the country even at times. You spend more time apart than together. While our line workers provide power to the world, we are at home handling everything else. It may be working, caring for the kids, caring for your home, or anything else life throws at us. Sometimes this can be extremely overwhelming.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Take this time (if you haven't already) and figure out your support system! This is crucial for any line family. Not just for the spouses and kids at home but also for our line workers on the job! Being away from home and family, more days than not, can also take a massive toll on anyone So if you still need to, find someone (or a lot of someone) that you can have as a support system This may be family at home to help with different things, a friend to talk to, or even co-workers to have as a shoulder to lean on when needed. It takes a village, so make sure you have plenty of people in your "village" to help support you, your family, and your needs when it's too much to handle alone. The one thing I love about this trade is the amazing friends and support system you met. You will make friends that will last a lifetime. We have met families in the trade from one side of the country to the other, and we would all be there for each other at the drop of a hat if needed! So rely on these people if you need someone. Need to put a support system into place? Need to talk to someone? LINECO offers free counseling services through its Member Assistance Program (MAP) The website link and number are provided below 1-800-323-7268 https://www.lineco.org/html/hspd0680.htm