Talk.build’s Post

I have been writing about suicide and mental health issues within the construction industry for more than 10 years. In that time there have been massive strides worldwide to tackle these issues, but sadly figures still remain exceptionally high. In America construction workers are four times more likely to kill themselves than any other profession. There are similar figures in America and Europe. What a ***** tragic waste. If you can check out the full article here: https://lnkd.in/ejc-DRke #mentalhealth #suicide #construction #constructionhealth

💼 Addressing Mental Health in Construction 🏗️ Suicide rates among men remain alarmingly high, with construction workers facing an even higher risk than the national average. The construction industry grapples with intense pressures, including tight contracts, long hours, and strict budget management. The pandemic and rising supply costs have only exacerbated these challenges. 🚧 A critical issue: Over half of UK employees, especially Millennials, feel uncomfortable disclosing mental health issues. This discomfort prevents many from seeking the support they need. 🔄 It's time for change. The construction industry must prioritize mental health and create a supportive environment where workers can openly discuss and address their mental well-being. Let's work together to build not just structures, but a healthier future for everyone in the industry. #MentalHealth #Construction #Wellbeing #Support #Change (Garbett, 2023)

This week is Mental Health Awareness Week. 🧠 Did you know that male construction workers are at greater risk of stress, mental illness and suicide than the ‘normal working population’? Did you know that suicide rates among construction workers are over three times higher than the UK national average and continue to rise? Despite this, construction workers are still reluctant to seek help for mental health difficulties. Mates in Mind and the Institute for Employment Studies (IES) found that construction worker’s experience of stigma prevents them from discussing mental health problems. We need to do more to overcome the barriers that prevent workers from accessing help and that should start with fully understanding what the experiences are for those in this industry. I am designing a research project that intends to explore construction workers’ preferences for seeking help, and their views around mindfulness-based interventions for mental health problems, as these interventions are becoming increasingly accessible through NHS services. I would like the opportunity to reach as many construction workers as possible to maximise the impact of this research and am therefore trying to expand my network with those working in the industry, who may be able to promote and collaborate with me on the project. If you can help in any way, please contact me via LinkedIn or by email at: ss05066@surrey.ac.uk Thank you. 👷♂️👷♀️ If you need support, please reach out: Call Samaritans 24/7 on 116 123. Text 'HARDHAT' to 85258. Visit Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity and Mates in Mind for resources and support. #construction #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #constructionindustry #MHFA #mentalhealthmatters

Suicide rates & mental health issues are high now in men & women construction employees. A lay discussion below of the mental health stresses of men & women employees in construction. Chronic pain from injuries is only part of the story. 📌Check in with your construction friends. https://lnkd.in/g9KxMnqu

🧠 CIOB launches survey to address mental health in construction 🧠 The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has launched a global survey to address the silent mental health crisis in the construction industry. By Miles Rebeiro #construction https://lnkd.in/ds-wWnVz

🚧 This Men's Health Month, let's spotlight an issue often overlooked in the construction industry: the alarming rates of suicide among male workers. 🚧 Did you know that male construction workers are significantly more at risk of suicide compared to the general population? The nature of our work, long hours, and the pressures we face can often lead to mental health challenges that go unnoticed. It's time to break the stigma and start the conversation. By raising awareness and supporting mental health initiatives, we can create a safer, healthier work environment for everyone in the industry. Here are a few steps we can take: 1️⃣ Encourage open dialogue about mental health. Let's make it okay to talk about our struggles and seek help when needed. 2️⃣ Provide resources and support for mental health education and training. Knowledge empowers us to recognize signs of distress and support our colleagues. 3️⃣ Promote work-life balance and stress management techniques. Taking care of ourselves physically and mentally is crucial for our well-being. Together, we can make a difference. Let's stand up for the mental health of our colleagues and create a supportive community in construction. 💪 https://lnkd.in/gnbDZB7W #MensHealthMonth #ConstructionIndustry #MentalHealthAwareness #EndTheStigma #WorkplaceWellness

It's well known the construction sector is one where mental health and wellbeing isn't discussed as much as it should be and for too many people this results in devastating consequences. It needs to change now. If you're in the built environment sector or are connected to people who are, please share our survey so we at The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) can get some up to date insight into what's behind the problems and how they can best be addressed. It's open until 31 January and only takes a few minutes. https://lnkd.in/ey38ApGh

Today is World Suicide Prevention Day, and I'm compelled to revisit an important issue: mental health in the construction industry. As a Samaritans listening volunteer this is an issue that really resonates with me.   A few months back, I wrote about the alarming statistic that construction workers are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than the national average.   The construction industry faces unique challenges: long, demanding hours; physical strain; job insecurity; and an "alpha" culture that often discourages open discussions about mental health. While we're seeing progress, with many construction companies implementing support systems, there's still work to be done.    At Barwood Capital, we've made it our mission to prioritise mental health when awarding contracts. We look beyond just the bottom line, requiring detailed information on mental health policies, wellbeing resources, fair wage practices, and charitable affiliations. This approach isn't just about ticking boxes, it’s about fostering a culture where every worker feels supported and heard.   On this World Suicide Prevention Day, I urge my fellow connections to join us in this commitment.   If you haven't read it yet, I encourage you to check out my full article on this topic: https://lnkd.in/eHUDdAX7  And finally, PLEASE, if you are struggling do speak to someone or call Samaritans on 116 123 #WorldSuicidePreventionDay #Construction #MentalHealth #WorkplaceMentalHealth #RealEstate

🌟 Reflecting on 5 Years of Dedication to Mental Health in Construction 🌟 In October 2019, I had the incredible honour of receiving the Princess Royal Training Award for my workplace mental health initiative. It’s hard to believe that five years have passed since that proud moment, yet my commitment to mental health and safety in the construction industry has only grown stronger. Meeting HRH Princess Anne, the Princess Royal at St. James's Palace over afternoon tea was unforgettable—she truly is a remarkable, down-to-earth woman who radiates genuine care for others. Over the years, I’ve seen the profound impact that mental health initiatives can have on individuals and teams. Unfortunately, mental health challenges remain prevalent in our industry. Did you know that: * Suicide rates in construction are nearly 3 times the national average? * The Lighthouse Club reports that an estimated two construction workers die by suicide each day in the UK alone. * Nearly one-third of workers in construction suffer from serious mental health issues, yet only a small fraction reach out for help. These numbers are not just statistics—they represent our colleagues, friends, and loved ones. It is a reminder that we need to continue championing mental health and supporting one another. If you or someone you know is struggling, please remember that help is always available. Let’s work together to create a supportive and safe work environment. Thank you to everyone who has supported these initiatives over the years. Together, we can make a difference. #MentalHealthMatters #ConstructionIndustry #HealthAndSafety #PrincessRoyalTrainingAward #LighthouseClub #MentalHealthSupport #BreakTheStigma #WellbeingAtWork #YouAreNotAlone

https://lnkd.in/e7ZRxsTb Join us today in moment of silence. The rate of death by suicide for construction workers is 5.5 times the rate of all other construction fatalities on the jobsite. The rate of suicide in construction is more than four times higher than the general population. (Source: BLS) With more than 8 million (and rising) workers in the industry, it is critical that we place as much focus on mental health in our workforce as much as we do the physical.