The construction industry has been around as long as humanity itself. From the pyramids of Egypt to the temples and monuments that still stand today, we’ve built legacies. But amid the focus on physical structures, we’re missing an urgent priority: the mental health of those who make it all possible.
This crisis isn’t new, but recent studies, like a report from the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report have spotlighted a stark truth—the construction workforce is in serious danger. Mental health challenges have long plagued this industry, but now, the data brings them to light, showing a reality that can no longer be ignored.
The numbers are sobering. Data from 17 U.S. states indicates that male construction and extraction workers have the highest suicide rate across occupational groups. Nearly one-fifth (17.9%) of reported suicides where occupation was known came from construction, despite this group making up only 7.4% of the workforce.
These statistics have galvanized industry professionals, leading to initiatives like Construction Suicide Prevention Week during September’s Suicide Prevention Month. Yet, the data over recent years shows little improvement—mental health remains a pressing issue in construction.
This isn’t just about percentages and statistics. For every life lost, an entire circle of family, friends, and colleagues are affected. Behind each number was a person—a worker who helped build our cities, roads, and communities. These were real people who went to work, shared their skills, and faced daily challenges. And for each of them lost, it’s a unique, irreplaceable void.
There’s an undeniable stigma in construction around mental health. Workers are expected to be tough, resilient, and able to push through every challenge. Admitting to mental health struggles is often seen as a sign of weakness, one that could potentially cost them their livelihood. The fear of not being hired or letting down the team can stop workers from speaking up or reaching out for help.
Additionally, with labor shortages, construction workers are pushed harder than ever. They work long hours, often sacrificing time with family and friends, missing out on relaxation, and feeling the strain of the job. Over time, this stress compounds, impacting mental health and eroding the emotional strength needed to keep going.
Mental health struggles are often challenging to detect, particularly in a high-energy, fast-paced environment like a construction site. However, there are indicators that managers and colleagues can watch for:
Recognizing these warning signs can be the first step toward providing the support that struggling workers need. Addressing these issues with compassion and creating a culture of openness can prevent mental health challenges from escalating.
With the rising awareness of mental health struggles in construction, several organizations and initiatives are now available to support workers:
CIASP is dedicated to reducing suicide risks within the construction sector. It provides resources and educational programs aimed at changing attitudes and increasing awareness of mental health issues on job sites. By educating industry stakeholders, CIASP hopes to make mental health as much of a priority as physical safety.
This non-profit organization collaborates with construction companies to raise standards in the industry. Its work includes campaigns to build trust and foster safe, supportive environments for workers.
A volunteer group offering mental health training and awareness resources for the construction industry. BMH has created a framework that companies can adopt to prioritize mental health at every level, ensuring that workers have access to supportive resources.
Going beyond education, this organization provides comprehensive training and strategic interventions that encourage a deeper understanding of mental health needs. They stress the importance of implementing both long-term support systems and immediate interventions.
ConstraSafe has emerged as a leading technology-based solution in this space, specifically designed to address both physical and mental health on construction sites. The ConstraSafe platform provides tools for real-time safety tracking and access to mental health resources, fostering an environment where safety encompasses both physical and psychological well-being. Here’s how ConstraSafe is making a difference:
When mental health is given the attention it deserves, everyone in the construction industry benefits:
Addressing mental health in the construction industry isn’t just about meeting numbers or ticking boxes; it’s about fostering a workplace culture that values each worker’s well-being. It’s a call to action for companies, supervisors, and workers alike to build a supportive environment that makes mental health a priority. By integrating physical and mental safety initiatives, we can prevent needless tragedies and support construction workers in their challenging roles.
ConstraSafe and the broader mental health community are taking steps to ensure that mental health support is accessible, comprehensive, and impactful. It’s time for every industry stakeholder to recognize the importance of mental wellness alongside physical safety, building not only safe structures but also resilient.
