17 Oct Mental Health and Well-Being in the Construction Industry
The nature of the construction industry has meant that concerns about physical health and safety have been priorities for longer than in most other industries. However, in recent years, it has been increasingly recognised that maintaining construction workers’ mental health and well-being is equally crucial.
Figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show the suicide rate among construction workers in the UK as more than three times the national average. This clearly highlights the importance of addressing the issue. So why is the problem so serious, and what can be done about it?
What Are the Challenges to Mental Health in Construction?
Depression, stress and anxiety are common among construction workers, for a variety of reasons:
- Alternating between long working hours and periods of lay-off can disrupt sleep patterns, a common cause of poor mental health.
- Workers employed for individual projects can often suffer stress over job security, especially in times like the present — although this is less of a risk for those employed securely by local builders.
- Many construction workers spend long periods away from home, leading to a sense of isolation.
- Construction workers face the constant risk of physical injury, contributing to fears about the future.
None of this is made easier by the stigma that can still exist, in a traditionally male-dominated industry, about admitting to mental health issues. Construction workers are often unwilling to talk about their problems and instead use unhelpful coping mechanisms, such as alcohol.
How Is Mental Health in Construction Being Addressed?
In recent years, both the Government and industry organisations have introduced initiatives to address mental health and well-being in the construction industry.
The Health & Safety Executive (HSE), which has traditionally emphasised physical safety, has begun also stressing the importance of mental health on construction sites. At the same time, the Government’s “Building Mental Health” framework provides companies with a structure to follow. Measures include establishing clear channels of communication, providing access to resources and training, and creating a supportive work environment.
Both the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity have introduced initiatives such as “mental health first-aiders”. This has inspired some construction companies to set up schemes to provide counselling and support for their workers.
What Are the Implications of Improving Mental Health in Construction?
Most of us have a natural human desire not to see people suffering, but does worker well-being affect employers and customers in any other way?
In fact, it’s of profound importance to everyone concerned. A workforce with good mental health tends to be more productive, less likely to make mistakes and brings a more positive attitude to the workplace. All this means is that the company will be more profitable and will have better results for customers.
Compared with large, national construction organisations, a company like U&M has a smaller, relatively stable workforce. This makes it easier for our managers to identify issues among workers before they become serious, letting us take measures to support our people to remain mentally healthy.
If you’re looking for piling contractors in London, the surrounding areas, South East England, and other construction projects, give U&M a call.