A fifth of construction workers are ‘too embarrassed’ to discuss mental heath 

First aid charity St John Ambulance has launched a campaign encouraging construction workers to open up about their mental health.

The new campaign follows research commissioned by the charity which found nearly seven in 10 construction workers have suspected a colleague was seriously depressed but felt it too difficult to talk about. 

The research of 500 construction workers also revealed 71% of respondents have given their employer a different reason, such as a physical illness, for taking time off due to a mental health issue. 

Nearly four in 10 (39%) said they would rather quit their job than tell someone at work about a mental illness.  

The research also revealed nearly a third (31%) of respondents described their current state as “struggling”, “overwhelmed” or “suicidal”, while 82% said they have suffered with a mental health challenge at some point during their career in the industry.  

Although nearly two-thirds of respondents (65%) agreed that it is healthier to share struggles about stress, anxiety or depression, nearly half (48%) think they would lose the trust and respect of their colleagues, while a fifth said they would be "too embarrassed" to do so.  

In light of the findings, St John Ambulance is introducing a mental health first aid course that uses real-life scenarios to train workers to spot hidden signs, start difficult conversations, and create workplaces where colleagues feel safe to share their problems. 

As part of the campaign, the charity is also sharing limited edition ‘Hi Vis Stress Vests’ with construction companies and celebrities, including TV builder Tommy Walsh. 

Lisa Sharman, national head of education and commercial training at St John Ambulance, said: “While the construction industry has made progress in recognising mental health challenges, our research shows there is still a long way to go before the crisis truly eases. 

“A key step forward is for HR leaders to invest in proactive initiatives – particularly face-to-face training – that empower employees to speak openly and confidently about their mental health. 
 
“Our findings highlight that organisations integrating mental health first aid into their core training not only foster a healthier, more supportive work environment but also see tangible benefits in employee retention and reduced sickness rates." 

For more information about the campaign, visit sja.org.uk/hivis. 

Construction workers can text BOB to 85258 to access mental health support. The Lighthouse Club also provides a confidential 24/7 support helpline on 0345 605 1956 to anyone in the industry who needs financial or wellbeing support.

Mental health support and advice for CIOB members, past members and related family is available through CIOB Assist. CIOB, in partnership with Anxiety UK, also provides wellbeing support. The Samaritans provides 24/7 support on 116 123.