Strong Foundations: Prioritising Mental Wellbeing on Construction Sites

“The strongest structures begin with minds that are cared for.”

The construction industry is built on hard work, long hours, and the ability to push through, no matter the pressure. But behind every job well done is a worker who might be battling stress, exhaustion, or anxiety that no one sees. While physical safety has long been a priority on site, mental wellbeing hasn’t always had the same attention. That’s starting to change, because recent figures show just how vital it is to protect not only our bodies, but our minds too.

Facing Facts: The Real Cost of Mental Health in Construction

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), in 2023/24, approximately 776,000 workers across Great Britain reported work-related stress, depression, or anxiety. The construction industry, in particular, reported a rate of 3,772 cases of work-related ill health per 100,000 workers, highlighting the sector's significant mental health challenges.

Moreover, the construction industry accounted for 51 of the 138 work-related fatalities in 2023/24, emphasising the sector's inherent risks.

Under Pressure: What's Really Stressing Out Construction Workers?

Working in construction isn't just physically demanding, it takes a significant emotional toll too. Many workers silently struggle with stress and anxiety without realising they're not alone. Here are some common pressures you might recognise:

• Always on the Move:
  Constantly changing job sites can create uncertainty, isolation, and make it harder to build a sense of community.
• Long Hours, Little Rest:
  Extended shifts and overtime often mean less family time, disrupted sleep patterns, and feelings of exhaustion that go beyond physical tiredness.
• Keeping Quiet to Keep Strong:
  A culture that treats mental health discussions as a sign of weakness makes it difficult for workers to open up, delaying crucial help when it’s needed most.
• Pushed to the Limit:
  Continuous physical demands combined with tight deadlines can amplify stress, leading to both mental and physical burnout.

If you're feeling these pressures, you're not alone—understanding them is the first step to making a positive change.

Lighting the Way: Support from the Lighthouse Charity

Recognising these challenges, the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity offers comprehensive support tailored to construction workers:

• 24/7 Confidential Helpline: Immediate support available at 0345 605 1956 or via Live Web Chat.
• Self-Support App: A free app offering practical resources and confidential assistance. Download here.
• #MakeItVisible Campaign: Brings mental health awareness directly to sites through engaging, informative visits, promoting open dialogue. Learn more.
• Wellbeing Academy: Offers free training to empower workers with practical strategies to manage mental health issues like stress, anxiety, and depression. Explore courses.

Skills That Save Lives: Mental Health First Aid Training

To provide even deeper support, Essential Training Hub offers the accredited Mental Health First Aid Training (MHFA) course. This course equips participants with essential skills to identify, understand, and effectively respond to mental health issues in the workplace, creating safer, more supportive environments for everyone.

Participants learn:

• How to spot early signs of mental health problems.
• Techniques for providing immediate support.
• Strategies to guide individuals towards professional help.

Book your place or find out more: Mental Health First Aid Training (MHFA).

Take Control: Practical Ways to Protect Your Mental Health

You don’t have to wait for things to get overwhelming before taking action. Small, consistent steps can make a big difference in how you feel, on and off the job. Here are a few simple but powerful ways to look after your mental wellbeing:

1. Speak Up, Don’t Bottle It Up
   Talk openly with a colleague, friend, or supervisor. A quick chat can take a load off, and might encourage someone else to do the same.
2. Take Breaks Without Guilt
   Stepping away for a few minutes isn’t slacking, it’s smart. Rest helps reset your mind and keeps you safer and sharper on the job.
3. Use What’s There to Help You
   From helplines to on-site support, charities like Lighthouse offer tools that are free, confidential, and built for people in construction. Don’t be afraid to use them.
4. Look Out for Each Other
   If something seems off with a mate, check in. You don’t need to have the answers, just showing you care can make all the difference.

Prioritising mental health in construction isn’t just the right thing to do for workers—it’s essential for building safer, stronger teams. When we face the challenges head-on and make use of the support that’s out there, we lay the groundwork for a culture where wellbeing is valued just as much as output. A healthier industry starts with healthier people. 

“Mental wellbeing isn’t just good practice – it’s the cornerstone of a safer, stronger construction industry.”