The CIOB found in 2020 that over a quarter of construction workers had experienced suicidal thoughts
Construction workers from across the globe have been encouraged to take part in the new mental health survey from the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
The third instalment in a series of research studies welcomes feedback from construction operatives of all levels, as the CIOB seeks to gain greater insight into the mental health stressors affecting the industry.
The 2020 report found overwhelming levels of stress in the industry
The previous report, released in 2020, revealed that 97% of construction workers had experienced high levels of stress- and 71% had not received any mental health training.
As well as a significant lack of appropriate training, more than a quarter of construction workers surveyed reported experiencing suicidal thoughts.
The CIOB’s previous research on mental health also found that:
87% of UK construction workers experienced anxiety
70% experienced depression
97% experienced stress
96% experienced fatigue
95% experienced poor concentration
91% felt overwhelmed
86% experienced a lack of self-confidence
26% had suicidal thoughts
Daisie Barnett, policy development manager at CIOB, said: “Our 2020 report revealed scary statistics about the prevalence of mental health challenges within the workforce.
“The number of workers experiencing stress, fatigue and suicidal thoughts highlighted significant and urgent change was needed.”
A variety of professional pressures can lead to poor mental health
The 2020 CIOB mental health survey and report identified multiple factors that led to stressful work environments, including:
71% of manual workers found the lack of adequate toilet facilities stressful
80% found noise levels stressful
79% found inadequate temperature control stressful
67% found the uncertainty of working location stressful
92% experienced stress due to unrealistic deadlines
94% experienced stress due to time pressures
93% experienced stress due to having too much work to do
86% of senior-level staff experienced stress due to cost pressures
84% found the lack of involvement in decisions caused them stress
These findings have been supported by more recent research, which found that long hours and irregular schedules had a disruptive impact on the sleep patterns of construction workers, which consequently negatively impacted their mental health.
Higher rates of depression, anxiety and stress increase the risk of accidents, injuries and absenteeism, as well as decreased overall productivity.
Therefore, tackling poor mental health should be a priority for the industry not only to preserve health and wellbeing, but as an integral part of running a business.
Assessing the construction industry’s mental health in a post-pandemic era
Barnett continued: “Our follow-up survey allows us to understand what progress has been made and where further action might be required. We are particularly interested to see what has changed post the pandemic, with the introduction of flexible working opportunities and the potential increase of financial worries.”
“We want to hear from construction workers across the globe and we encourage everyone to be as honest as possible.
“Mental health in construction is a silent crisis, so please use this opportunity to ensure your voice is heard and help shape future strategies to support those working in the industry worldwide.”
The survey is open to construction workers at all levels until 31 January 2025. The research findings are due later next year.
If you or someone you know is suffering, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK on 0800 689 5652.
You can also use the “BeAMate” text support service by texting “BeAMate” to 85258. Trained volunteers can help with issues including anxiety, stress, loneliness or depression and are available 24/7.
In a life-threatening emergency, always call 999.
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