Mental Health... More Than Just a Hashtag.

The construction industry in Australia continues to face a serious mental health crisis. According to ABS data, workers in the construction industry are six times more likely to die by suicide than from a workplace accident. Let me repeat that... SIX times more likely to die by suicide than from a workplace accident... On average, a construction worker dies by suicide every second day in Australia. This alarming rate highlights the urgent need for real, actionable mental health support in the industry.

Days like RUOK Day have become important reminders to check in with our co-workers, friends, and family. They bring much-needed attention to mental health, encourage open conversations, and remind us to reach out to those who might be struggling. But it's crucial that these initiatives are more than just a photo opp for social media.

I've had many conversations with individuals across the industry where they don't get the support they need, yet their company is happy to post these tokenistic photos. A person I know is currently facing significant mental health challenges, he is struggling deeply. While his workplace hosted an RUOK Day BBQ event, complete with balloons, merch, and photos posted online, there has been little support offered to him. In fact, it seems to have put a target on his back.

Tokenism is affecting our people. Companies are often quick to show their support for mental health on social media, but behind the scenes, little changes. This is not enough. We need more than just symbolic gestures. We need real support systems in place. Without this, the tragic suicide rates in the industry will remain unchanged.

Why should you care?

The construction industry relies on the strength, skills, and dedication of its workers. Yet, many of these individuals are struggling, often silently, with untreated mental health issues. Addressing mental health is not just an act of compassion—It's crucial to make sure these workers have the support they need to thrive in their roles and continue shaping the future of the industry.

When someone is struggling with their mental health, it can become harder to focus, make decisions, and perform their job safely on site. By supporting the mental wellbeing of employees, companies create a safer, more positive environment where people can do their best work. This not only helps the workers but also makes the whole workplace more productive and safer.

Creating a positive workplace culture is crucial for the well-being of every employee. When a company truly cares about its workers, it attracts talent, builds loyalty, and fosters a place where people feel valued and heard. This kind of environment is where workers want to stay and grow and most importantly, they feel safe to open up.

What can you do to support your employees?

1. Providing access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) can make a big difference. These programs offer free, confidential counselling sessions, allowing workers to reach out when they need support. (At the end of this article there is a list of free mental health support services that every employer should have on hand for their employees.)
2. Managers can make a difference by being approachable and taking time to listen without judgement. Offering a space where workers can share their challenges without fear of stigma or backlash is crucial.
3. Educating employees on how to recognise signs of mental distress and how to handle difficult conversations is key. With this training, they can better support their colleagues and connect them to the right resources.
4. Managers need to start having regular catch ups with their staff - that isn't about work or KPI's! Genuine conversations about life are needed.
5. Long hours and high stress are common in construction. Encouraging reasonable work hours, breaks, and time off can help prevent burnout and create a healthier environment.
6. Consider introducing "Mental Health Days," allowing employees to take a day off when they need a break to recharge—Note, this is different from traditional sick leave.

We Need Real Change, Not Just Words

It’s time for the industry to change how it approaches mental health. We must move from token gestures to real action. That means embedding mental health into every level of the organisation, from the site manager to the boardroom. Companies must understand that the wellbeing of their workers is not just an add-on, it’s fundamental to the success of their business and the industry.

If we want to save lives, we must act now. Awareness days like RUOK Day are a great start, but they should be part of a broader commitment to mental health.

• TIACS (This Is A Conversation Starter) Phone: 0488 846 988 Website: tiacs.org. TIACS is a free and confidential counselling service tailored to blue-collar workers, including those in the construction industry. It’s designed to provide easy access to professional mental health support without the red tape. Workers can reach out directly through a phone call or text message for support and advice.
• MATES in Construction Phone: 1300 642 111 Website: mates.org.au. MATES in Construction is a well-known organisation in Australia offering free support for mental health and suicide prevention specifically for construction workers. They provide onsite support, training, and a 24/7 helpline, focusing on building a network of support within the industry.
• Beyond Blue Phone: 1300 224 636 Website: beyondblue.org.au Beyond Blue offers support to all Australians experiencing anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts. They provide free 24/7 phone support and online chat services, along with resources tailored to the unique challenges faced by workers in high-stress environments like construction.
• Lifeline Australia Phone: 13 11 14 Website: lifeline.org.au Lifeline is available 24/7 for anyone in crisis or needing support. While not specific to construction, it is a trusted national service offering free phone support and online resources for those experiencing mental health issues, providing a critical safety net.
• Heads Up - by Beyond Blue Website: heads-up.org.au. Heads Up is an initiative by Beyond Blue focused on creating mentally healthy workplaces. While it’s more of a resource hub than a direct counselling service, it offers valuable tools and information for employers in construction to create supportive work environments.
• MensLine Australia Phone: 1300 78 99 78 Website: mensline.org.au. MensLine provides free, 24/7 support specifically tailored to men, which can be particularly useful in the male-dominated construction industry. They offer phone and online chat support for those dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship problems, or other mental health issues.