Mental Health in the Construction Industry
- Menicucci Insurance
- Sep 18
- 2 min read
Poor mental health is a major issue for construction workers. According to a 2021 National Health Interview Survey from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 30.7% of the responding construction workers felt anxious at least once per month, and 9.3% felt depressed at least once per month. The construction industry also has one of the highest suicide rates among workers of any industry; over 5,000 construction workers die by suicide annually, according to the CDC.
Furthermore, the American Addiction Centers noted that approximately 15% of all construction workers in the United States have a substance abuse disorder, and the CDC has stated that construction and extraction occupation groups experience some of the highest death rates from drug overdoses.
What Makes Construction Workers Vulnerable to Mental Health Issues?
Several factors lead to a high number of mental health issues in the construction industry, including:
Jobsite safety risks that cause injuries
Long work hours and strenuous labor
Challenging working conditions (e.g., extreme heat and cold)
An environment where asking for help is not always encouraged
Chronic pain
Financial uncertainty due to seasonal work and a fluctuating economy
Deadlines
Poor work-life balance
Actions to help prevent and address mental health concerns
Identify issues that cause anxiety or worry and speak to your supervisor about them.
Ask if there are any support services offered by the company and use them.
Show concern for co-workers and respond quickly if you believe they are in crisis.
Call the suicide prevention hotline for help if you or a co-worker are having suicidal thoughts.
Find a work-life balance and take time to pursue your hobbies and interests.
Spend time in nature and with your family and pets.
Eat healthier and get quality sleep.
Speak with those who can help, such as family members, friends, doctors and counselors.
