Mental Health Awareness Week: Industry urged to take action

Mental Health Awareness Week runs from 12 to 18 May — and the construction industry is being urged to use the opportunity to address stress and mental ill health in the workplace.

With around half of all work-related ill health in Britain caused by stress, depression or anxiety, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is highlighting the practical steps employers can take — and their legal duty to do so.

According to Mates in Mind, stress levels are rising fastest in smaller construction businesses, where long hours, financial pressure, and isolation are common. The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity reports that labourers and finishing trades made the most calls to its support line last year.

Free support is available
HSE’s Working Minds campaign offers a suite of free resources to help employers tackle the causes of stress and build healthier working environments. These include:

• Online learning and downloadable risk assessment tools
• The Construction Talking Toolkit for SMEs
• Posters, guides, and monthly bulletins
• Signposts to free mental health support from Mates in Mind and the Lighthouse Charity

Workers can also access 24/7 confidential support by calling 0345 605 1956, texting HARDHAT to 85258, or using the Construction Industry Helpline app.

“Mental Health Awareness Week is a timely reminder that employers have a legal and moral duty to prevent work-related stress,” said an HSE spokesperson. “Good mental health at work doesn’t happen by accident — it needs planning, support and leadership.”

Stress and construction
Workplace stress can lead to or worsen mental health problems such as anxiety and depression, especially when combined with pre-existing conditions or personal challenges. According to the HSE, mental health must be addressed just like any other workplace risk — with structured assessments and preventative action.

Employers are encouraged to review their policies, speak with their teams, and download HSE’s free Managing and Reducing Workplace Stress guide to get started.

Mates in Mind’s new video, Chris’ Story, made in partnership with the family of a construction veteran who experienced a mental health crisis, underscores the human cost of inaction. (Viewer discretion advised.)

“Talking about stress at work should be routine,” said a campaign partner. “This isn’t just about ticking a box — it’s about saving lives and making construction a safer, healthier place to work.”