“I’ve been in the industry just over 25 years now, on my own for 22 years. It’s great been self-employed but stressful. Some years ago I noticed, mainly in the winter as it’s quieter and I wasn’t making as much money, I would have 3-4 days where I didn’t feel well. I have been to the doctors before who said I must just keep getting viruses, however a few years later they got more common. I noticed it was stress related, I didn’t want to talk to people and every small thing seemed to make me unhappy and down.
The wife realised it was depression and sent me to the doctors who prescribed me with Sertraline (SSRI) and now I don’t get the episodes of depression anymore and feel happier.
I read in pest control news that over 80% of pest controllers have suffered with this. We have to deal with people ringing 24/7, being harassed by clients who still have problems, and handle negative people who have fears of pests.
I got myself a personal phone and turn my work phone off on evenings and weekends, as people seem to think we are on call all day and night. We also have to keep up with legislation changes and with products we use coming off the market.
I say to people you have to find a work-life balance and if you are struggling go to the doctor.”