Abstract: A dead man support apparatus for use in installing wallboard on a ceiling structure which includes a column. The column has first and second coaxial sections that cooperate telescopically and are spring biased in a direction that axial extends each section with respect to the other section. The apparatus also includes a contact member mounted on an axial extremity of the column. In some forms of the invention the spring is a coil compressions spring. One of the first and second coaxial sections may be a hollow cylindrical section. The relative axial travel between the first and second coaxial sections may be about 4 inches. In some cases the column has a length that is between 7 and 8 feet. At least a part thereof may be manufactured of fiberglass, aluminum or other light weight material.