With more than 2.7 million people employed in construction, it is one of the largest sectors in the country. But while mental health is an important issue in every workplace, those working in construction are disproportionately affected. So what are the causes of poor mental health in the construction industry? And what steps are being taken to rectify this?
What is the scale of the mental health crisis in construction?
Statistics show that mental health problems are significantly high across the construction sector. In fact, those from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) indicate that construction workers are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than the national average. Moreover, two construction workers take their own lives every working day. This is both a tragic and unacceptable situation that has highlighted the urgent need for awareness, support, and change within the industry, fuelling a number of campaigns and strategies.
Stress, anxiety, and depression are among the mental health issues that are widespread among construction workers, yet these difficulties are often masked or hidden in the workplace or on site. This often compounds the problem, increasing feelings of isolation and desperation. As such, taking steps to create opportunities for mental health discussion and support in the construction industry can be key for challenging the stigma around speaking out, and ultimately saving lives.
What are the major causes of poor mental health in construction?
Several factors contribute to poor mental health in the construction sector and these include:
- Long and irregular hours- Construction projects often involve long hours, weekend work, and irregular schedules. This can lead to poor work life balance, fatigue, and isolation from family and friends.
- Job insecurity- Many workers in construction are self employed or work on short term contracts. This can cause financial uncertainty and anxiety about future employment, especially when projects are delayed or cancelled.
- Physical demands and injury- Construction work is physically demanding and carries a high risk of injury. Unfortunately, those who suffer injuries may experience long recovery periods, reduced income, or job loss, which can then have a severe impact on mental health.
What is the importance of support in construction?
Providing better mental health support in the construction industry is essential for the overall wellbeing and health of your workers, and is ultimately the right thing to do. When workers feel supported and able to speak openly about their mental health, they feel less alone and are more able to make rational decisions.
What are the steps to take for improvement?
There are a number of steps that can be taken to enact positive change, increase awareness of mental health issues in the construction industry, and to support workers. These include:
- Industry campaigns and charities- Charities such as Mates in Mind, the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, and Mind provide resources, helplines, and training specifically aimed at construction workers. Campaigns like “Time to Talk” encourage open conversations about mental health.
- Promoting a supportive culture- Companies are working to change workplace culture by encouraging managers and supervisors to talk about mental health, lead by example, and create an environment where it’s safe to ask for help.
- Flexible working and better work-life balance- Where possible, employers are offering more flexible working arrangements and taking steps to improve work life balance, reducing some of the stress factors that contribute to poor mental health.
Understanding mental health in the construction industry
Mental health is a serious issue across the construction industry, affecting thousands of workers each year. The pressures of long hours, job insecurity, and physical demands, have made it a particularly high risk sector for mental health problems and suicide in particular.
However, the situation is improving. Through increased awareness, better support systems, industry wide campaigns, and a focus on changing workplace culture, the construction industry is beginning to tackle these challenges. Continued efforts are essential to ensure that every construction worker feels safe, supported, and valued, both physically and mentally, on and off site.