We’re over halfway through Mental Health Awareness Week (9-15 May) and this year’s primary focus of the Mental Health UK led campaign is loneliness and the effects this can have on our mental health.
There is huge emphasis on mental health in the construction industry where pressure can be high and statistics show that construction workers are more likely to experience work-related stress and other mental health issues due to the nature of the environment they work in.
A culture of working away from home, long working hours, heavy workloads as well as job insecurities are all contributing factors that gives the industry a bad name when it comes to mental health.
A study recorded by the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity and CITB has highlighted the toll that poor mental health is taking on construction workers. The research revealed 26% of workers had experienced suicidal thoughts and 91% felt overwhelmed. Tragically two people in the construction industry take their own lives each day.
Scott Smyth, Founder and Group CEO of Soben, commented: “We are proud to help raise awareness of mental wellbeing in the workplace as we recover from the pandemic where lockdowns and subsequent loneliness has affected so many people.
“The tragic and alarming fact that two construction workers take their own life every single working day clearly indicates that we need to do more as an industry and construction companies need to look after their workforce.
“When all workers can access the right support, without the fear of shame or humiliation, more lives will be ultimately saved and attracting new people to the industry will become easier which will help close the skills gap we are currently experiencing.
“It’s fantastic to see organisations such as The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity launch initiatives to coincide with this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week to remind everyone in our industry about the freely available resources on offer.”
If you need any help or support, or know someone who does, free and confidential support is available 24/7 via the Construction Industry Helpline on UK 0345 605 1956 / ROI 1800 939 122. You can also text HARDHAT to 85258 (UK) or 50808 (ROI) to access anonymous and confidential help immediately via text.
