As part of its work to support its members, SAPCA is committed to actively tackling the challenges they (and the wider industry) faces.
One such area of support is highlighting and speaking openly about mental health in construction.
There are some alarming facts relating to mental health in our sector:
• Male construction workers are 3.7 times more likely to die by suicide than the national average in the UK. (ONS)
• 26% of construction professionals reported having suicidal thoughts. (CIOB)
• 73% of workers reported dealing with mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, on a monthly basis, while 45% felt these symptoms weekly. (BDCM survey 2023)
Mental health issues often go unnoticed in the workplace – especially within construction businesses. This is because more than four in five (84%) tradespeople don’t feel comfortable talking to others about their feelings. Just one in six (17%) have spoken to friends or family about their mental health. (BDCM survey 2023).
The consequences of the challenges can be devastating to individuals and have an impact on businesses too. ‘In the UK construction industry, mental health issues led to an estimated 5.1 million workdays lost in 2023. This equates to an average of 1.7 days lost per worker.’ (QBE survey 2024)
It is no secret that “macho” cultures prevalent in certain industries – including construction – can deter workers from discussing their mental health struggles, exacerbating the problem.
Industry-wide efforts are being made to address these concerns and there is a growing body of resources and tools to help individuals and businesses wanting to address their mental health concerns. SAPCA members are encouraged to access these free resources as a starting point for their businesses and personal interests.
The Building Mental Health framework
The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity
Toolkit created by the mental health charity Mind
Mates in Mind
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