The challenge of mental health is a widely recognised issue within our sector. Statistics from the charity Mates in Mind show that two construction workers die by suicide every day. Specifically, men in construction are three times more likely to die by suicide than the national average, while a third are living with elevated levels of anxiety each day. 

Inconsistent working patterns, dangerous conditions and a challenging work-life balance all play a part in pushing our workforce to the edge, yet all remain commonplace in the day-to-day workload.

It is true that, even over the past decade, our industry has made strides in tackling the serious issue of poor mental health among our workforce. Conversations around wellbeing on construction sites have gone from being non-existent to a point where open conversations are now becoming commonplace. 

Staff training in mental health first aid supports this, while regular toolbox talks, campaigns and initiatives are maintaining awareness of the topic. All these actions help to break down the stigma and create a safer environment to talk about mental health and thoughts of suicide.