5 Ways to Improve Mental Health On Site

The construction industry is often known for its demanding physical labour and tight deadlines, but it’s crucial to consider the equally important aspect of mental health. Workers face various stressors, including long hours, job insecurity, time pressures and the physical demands of their roles. The work environment can change each day and this can be difficult to cope with. Mental health is a serious concern in the construction industry and research conducted by MATES in Construction reveals some alarming facts;

• Roughly 190 Australians working in the construction industry take their own lives. That is a loss of one construction worker every two days to suicide.
• Construction workers are eight times more likely to die from suicide than an accident at work.
• Apprentices are two times more likely to take their own lives than other young Australian men.

Although there is still a stigma and reluctance to discuss mental health within this industry, we are slowly seeing that barrier broken down and efforts to destigmatize these conversations.

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Employers in this construction business need to overhaul their workplaces and culture by creating an environment where workers can speak up about their struggles and get the support they need. Addressing mental health on construction sites not only enhances individual well-being but also boosts productivity and fosters a better work environment. Here’s how we can promote mental health effectively in this critical industry.

1. Promote Open Communication

Creating an environment that encourages open communication is vital for addressing mental health concerns. Workers should feel safe discussing their feelings without fear of judgment or repercussions. This can be fostered through regular check-ins, where supervisors and team leaders engage workers in conversations about their mental well-being.

Implementing anonymous surveys can also help gauge how employees are feeling and what challenges they might be facing. By normalizing discussions around mental health, teams can better support each other and reduce stigma.

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2. Provide Mental Health Resources

It’s essential for construction companies to offer resources that support mental health. This can include access to mental health professionals, workshops on stress management, and educational seminars about recognizing the signs of mental health issues.

Creating an employee assistance program (EAP) is also beneficial. This program can provide confidential counselling services, stress management workshops, and even financial advice to alleviate some of the pressures workers face. Ensuring that these resources are visible and accessible can encourage workers to seek help when needed.

3. Encourage Breaks and Downtime

In the hustle of construction deadlines, workers may feel compelled to push through fatigue. However, it’s crucial to encourage taking regular breaks. Scheduling short breaks throughout the day allows workers to step back, recharge, and prevent burnout.

Providing designated areas where workers can unwind, whether through relaxation spaces or even simple shade and seating, shows that the company values their well-being. Encourage activities like stretching or mindfulness exercises during breaks to promote mental clarity and reduce stress.

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4. Foster a Supportive Culture

Building a positive workplace culture significantly impacts mental health. This involves recognizing and celebrating achievements, whether big or small. Creating incentive programs, team-building activities, and social events can enhance camaraderie among workers, reinforcing a sense of community.

Furthermore, training supervisors and team leaders to recognize signs of mental distress and promote empathy can make a notable difference. A culture that prioritizes mental health and well-being is one where workers feel valued and understood.

5. Encourage Physical Health

Physical health and mental health are closely interconnected. Encouraging healthy habits within the workforce can lead to improved mental well-being. This can take the form of promoting regular physical activity, offering healthy meal options on-site, or hosting wellness challenges that engage workers.

Incorporating initiatives like yoga sessions, walking meetings, or fitness programs can encourage employees to stay active and reduce stress. Companies can also partner with nutritionists to provide resources on healthy eating habits that support mental health.

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Improving mental health on construction sites is not just beneficial for individual workers; it also enhances overall productivity and harmony within the team. By promoting open communication, providing resources, encouraging breaks, fostering a supportive culture, and emphasizing physical health, companies can create a more positive and productive work environment.

Being proactive about mental health can lead to a healthier, happier workforce that thrives even under the challenges of the demanding construction industry. It’s time to prioritize mental well-being just as much as physical safety and performance, paving the way for a better future in construction.

Remember you are not alone and seeking help for your mental health is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental health, below are some resources that you may find helpful, as well as training resources.

• MensLine Australia offer phone and online counselling services - https://mensline.org.au/
• Head to Health is a free confidential service that connects you with the help and support you need to keep mentally healthy - https://www.headtohealth.gov.au/
• Read real-life stories, and helpful resources and find counseling support at - https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
• Black Dog Institute have mental health resources and support tools recommended by professionals - https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/
• Find an online therapist - https://www.betterhelp.com/
• 24/7 crisis support - https://www.lifeline.org.au/
• MATES in Construction offer great training sessions, from general awareness training to ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) while helping to break down the stigma - Training + Support - MATES