We have spent centuries strengthening the foundations of our buildings, but how sturdy are the foundations that support the people who build them, asks Nicky Denegri.
For all the cranes reshaping our skylines, the construction industry still stands on shaky ground when it comes to the mental health and wellbeing of its workforce.
The figures are a sobering reminder of how high the stakes are: men working in construction are almost four times more likely to die by suicide than the national average, according to the Office for National Statistics.
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It is a statistic that should stop every industry leader in their tracks. Construction is an industry that prides itself on safety standards, yet too often, that focus falls way short.
Despite the welcome rise in awareness campaigns, toolbox talks and wellbeing charters, awareness alone does not save lives. On the ground, uncertainty and instability remain major sources of stress. Precarious work patterns – fixed-term contracts, short project cycles, and the ever-present question of “what’s next?” – create deep anxiety.
Whenever I walk through London, I see stunning new buildings nearing completion, knowing they have supported hundreds of livelihoods for months or years. But when the project ends, many face insecurity, not celebration.
Then there is the issue of isolation: time away from home, long shifts and temporary living arrangements can chip away at even the strongest resolve. One construction team I spoke to told me how boredom during downtime had led to gambling and substance abuse.
It is a story that echoes across the sector, and one that reveals how financial strain, loneliness and addiction can become a deadly mix.
Practical steps
So, what can be done? The industry has made strides, but we must go further, faster. Practical, evidence-based steps include:
- Training and appointing more mental health first aiders, so that experienced help is available at every level. Organisations like MHFA England provide expert training that can transform workplaces into safer spaces.
- Posting details of support organisations on site noticeboards and intranets, including services like Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) or the Construction Industry Helpline can be genuine lifelines.
- Encouraging social connection through initiatives such as the Men’s Sheds Association.
- Acknowledging and addressing addiction like gambling, alcohol and drugs, with the same openness and commitment we show to physical safety.
Construction has transformed its health and safety culture over the past generation. Hard hats and harnesses are now non-negotiable; the next evolution is to treat mental safety with equal seriousness.
Progress is being made, but we are not there yet. The next phase of building must be about people, not just projects.
Let’s commit to creating an industry where every worker can return home safe – physically, mentally, and emotionally. Now that is a foundation worth building on.
Nicky Denegri is principal consultant and head of coaching at KWC Global.
Mental health support and advice for CIOB members, past members and related family is available through CIOB Assist. CIOB, in partnership with Anxiety UK, also provides wellbeing support.
The Lighthouse Charity offers 24/7 free and confidential support on all aspects of emotional, physical, and financial wellbeing.
24/7 helplines: 0345 605 1956 (UK) 1800 939 122 (ROI)
Text HARDHAT to 85258 (UK) or 50808 (ROI)
Live chat and more information: www.lighthousecharity.org
