Did you know that construction workers are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than the average person in the UK? It’s a shocking statistic, and one that highlights just how critical it is to address mental health in the industry.
April marks National Stress Awareness Month, a time to reflect on how stress affects our day-to-day lives and in construction, the impact is often greater than most realise. Long hours, tight deadlines, physical strain, and high-pressure environments can all take a toll on workers’ mental well-being.
At FBR Construction Recruitment, we believe in supporting not just careers, but the people behind them. That’s why our team includes professionals like Cameron Whitley, who is certified as a Mental Health First Aider (Level 3). In recognition of Stress Awareness Month, we sat down with Cameron to talk about mental health in construction and how we can all play a part in supporting well-being across the industry.
Why do you think mental health is a big issue in the construction industry?
“Mental Health is an ongoing issue and it will be until the stigma of others talking breaks down. Although both men and women suffer, it is predominantly led by males. A staggering statistic is that poor mental health within the construction industry accounts for over 200 suicides per year. Astronomical numbers. It is a big issue because we need to try and find ways of preventing this from happening where possible.”
With construction still being a male-dominated industry, there can often be a stigma around opening up. Cameron shared how the pressures of the job and certain attitudes can lead many to suffer in silence.
Can you tell us a bit about your Mental Health First Aider Level 3 certification?
“So, I am Mental Health First Aider – trained at Level 3. I sat the course which took a week and it really helped me evolve not just as a person, but as a manager too. It has helped me identify certain triggers, signs of warning, and given me the chance to help others both in the industry and personally too. So, for FBR if any of my colleagues are struggling or need advice, they know I am the appointed person for mental health.”
This certification means Cameron is trained to recognise the signs of mental health issues and provide initial support. He can then suggest ways to help as well as useful resources.
How has this training helped you support candidates and clients?
“It has helped me become more understanding and supportive. It has helped me navigate around experiences and give somebody a shoulder. It gives them the freedom to express themselves and be heard which is the vital point. I have helped a couple of candidates and given them advice. My colleagues at FBR have spoken to me privately and I’ve been able to make them feel supported. It’s important to remember though that I am not a professional, so when things have got to the next level of supporter, I have pointed them in the right direction to seek that help. They have thanked me and in return has made a difference to people’s lives within this industry.”
Whether it’s checking in with a stressed-out candidate or supporting a fellow colleague, Cameron’s training helps create a safer, more open environment for everyone involved.
What are some signs that someone in the workplace might be struggling?
“Signs can be very apparent or sometimes they are things you have to consider before getting to a breaking point. So obvious stress signals could be looking worried, constant visits to a doctor, snapping, swearing, acting out of character, panic attacks etc. Worrying about bills, family life, work, these are all things we need to be mindful of before they get to breaking point. It has real life stresses, worry of job loss, too much travelling, not enough sleep, too much work demand, not enough breaks, not enough support, they need more money, also then concentration can cause mistakes, illness, serious work accidents. It all plays a part and it can be too much where they feel they have no escape.”
Spotting the signs early is key. From changes in behaviour to withdrawal from colleagues or sudden drops in performance, there are subtle indicators that someone might need help.
What are some practical steps companies can take to improve mental well-being on site?
“Practical steps could be to introduce coffee or breakfast meetings where they all stop and be together, have 1 to 1 time dedicated to talk to somebody on site if they are struggling, open talks or presentations on mental health and where they can find support, perhaps have leaflets or signs around the site/work place with contact numbers of where to get help. Train members of the team who want to do it and ensure their colleagues know who the appointed mental health first aiders are. Sometimes, just some awareness and creativity to give them an open space to talk will help in many ways.”
Small changes, like fostering open communication, offering flexible working options, or training site leads in basic mental health awareness can make a big difference.
What resources or support networks would you recommend for construction workers who need help?
“I would suggest the following – reaching out to your own company dedicated first aider if there is one, or contacting your GP for support. There are also talking therapies pout there via NHS to register, and active companies who advocate this such as the Samaritans, CALM, Mind, SOS, 111 for examples”
There are great organisations out there offering free, confidential support. From industry-specific charities like Mates in Mind and Lighthouse Club, to general resources like Mind and Samaritans, help is always available.
Mental health is just as important as physical safety on-site. As a recruitment company deeply embedded in the industry, we’re committed to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and encouraging healthier workplaces.
If you’re an employer looking to build a more supportive team culture or a candidate who needs someone to talk to our door is always open.
Experts in Construction Recruitment – Matching Talent with Opportunity Across the Industry.
At FBR Construction Recruitment, we connect skilled tradespeople, labourers, and plant operators with leading construction companies across the South East, Home Counties, and South Coast. From residential builds to large-scale civil engineering and M&E projects, we supply the people who keep sites moving.
Our reach span’s key locations including Chichester, Portsmouth, Guildford, Poole, Bournemouth, Winchester, Basingstoke, Cardiff, Bristol, Devon, Exeter, Crawley, Oxford, and beyond.
Whether you’re managing a site or looking for your next role, we’re here to make the process fast, straightforward, and effective.
Let FBR take the hassle out of hiring, or help you take the next step in your construction career.
FBR Construction Recruitment – Your Trusted Partner for Skilled Trades, Labour, and Plant Operators, Serving Residential Developers, Main Contractors, Civil Engineering, and M&E Sectors.
For reliable construction staffing solutions, contact FBR Construction Recruitment today.
When people think of construction, they often picture physically demanding labour on-site. While hands-on roles are a vital part of the industry, construction offers a diverse range of careers suited to various skill sets, interests, and personality types. We understand that every individual has unique abilities and aspirations. That’s why we aim to break the stereotype that construction is only about manual work. Whether your detail-oriented, analytical, a strong leader, or great at managing costs, there is a place for you in this dynamic industry. Here are some of the rewarding career opportunities available:
We are ecstatic to share the details from our first Charity of the Year! Throughout 2024, our team, clients, and candidates participated in various fundraising activities to reach our £2,500 target. Thanks to everyone’s hard work, donations, and support, we successfully achieved this by the end of the year! We are honoured to have made a difference in the lives of children and their families who need it most at Southampton General Hospital. Read on to discover what we accomplished throughout 2024 to help reach this goal!
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In the modern workplace, the term “company culture” has become closely associated with flashy perks like free fruit, ping pong tables, and coffee machines. While these amenities might boost morale in the short term, they often miss the mark when it comes to building a truly healthy work environment. To foster a culture that genuinely supports and motivates employees, companies need to dig deeper and focus on what really matters. This is especially true in industries like construction, where the nature of work differs significantly from the typical office setting. Here’s a fresh perspective on what company culture should encompass, with a focus on how to create a more meaningful impact in construction workplaces.
