Why Mental Health Matters in Construction
On 10th October 2024, we’ll join people across the globe in recognising World Mental Health Day — a day to focus on the importance of looking after our mental wellbeing. This is particularly important for those of us working in the construction industry in the UK and Ireland. With demanding hours, high-pressure environments, and physically tough work, it’s easy to see why mental health issues are common in our sector.
The Reality of Mental Health in Construction
The numbers paint a worrying picture. Construction workers in the UK are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than the national average, with over two construction workers taking their own lives every single working day. In Ireland, the situation is just as concerning, with studies showing that construction workers have a 10 times higher risk of suicide than those in other occupations. Mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, are estimated to cost the UK construction industry around £2.1 billion each year in lost productivity, absenteeism, and staff turnover.
These statistics are more than just numbers — they represent real people, our colleagues and friends. They highlight an urgent need for change in how we approach mental health on our sites and in our offices.
On 10th October 2024, we’ll join people across the globe in recognising World Mental Health Day — a day to focus on the importance of looking after our mental wellbeing. This is particularly important for those of us working in the construction industry in the UK and Ireland. With demanding hours, high-pressure environments, and physically tough work, it’s easy to see why mental health issues are common in our sector.
The Reality of Mental Health in Construction
The numbers paint a worrying picture. Construction workers in the UK are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than the national average, with over two construction workers taking their own lives every single working day. In Ireland, the situation is just as concerning, with studies showing that construction workers have a 10 times higher risk of suicide than those in other occupations. Mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, are estimated to cost the UK construction industry around £2.1 billion each year in lost productivity, absenteeism, and staff turnover.
These statistics are more than just numbers — they represent real people, our colleagues and friends. They highlight an urgent need for change in how we approach mental health on our sites and in our offices.
What We Can Do to Make a Difference
Creating a mentally healthier construction industry is something we can all contribute to. Here are some steps each of us can take to support better mental health:
Start a Conversation: It’s time to break the silence around mental health. Ask your mates how they’re doing — a simple “Are you okay?” could be the first step to helping someone open up.
Know the Signs: Look out for warning signs that a colleague might be struggling, such as changes in mood, irritability, tiredness, or frequent absences. Trust your instincts — if something feels off, it probably is.
Promote Healthy Habits: Encourage practices that support good mental health, such as regular breaks, exercise, and a balanced diet. Managers and supervisors should lead by example and promote a culture where it’s okay to take time for self-care.
Get Trained: Consider taking a Mental Health First Aid course, available in our Wellbeing Academy. It’s a practical way to learn how to support a colleague in crisis and can make a real difference in creating a safer, more supportive workplace.
Creating a mentally healthier construction industry is something we can all contribute to. Here are some steps each of us can take to support better mental health:
Start a Conversation: It’s time to break the silence around mental health. Ask your mates how they’re doing — a simple “Are you okay?” could be the first step to helping someone open up.
Know the Signs: Look out for warning signs that a colleague might be struggling, such as changes in mood, irritability, tiredness, or frequent absences. Trust your instincts — if something feels off, it probably is.
Promote Healthy Habits: Encourage practices that support good mental health, such as regular breaks, exercise, and a balanced diet. Managers and supervisors should lead by example and promote a culture where it’s okay to take time for self-care.
Get Trained: Consider taking a Mental Health First Aid course, available in our Wellbeing Academy. It’s a practical way to learn how to support a colleague in crisis and can make a real difference in creating a safer, more supportive workplace.
