The Irish construction industry is a cornerstone of national development, employing thousands across diverse roles. Yet behind the scaffolding and steel beams lies a growing concern: the mental health of its workforce. With rising stress levels, high suicide rates, and persistent stigma, it is time to shine a light on the emotional wellbeing of those who build our world.
Recent studies reveal alarming trends. A Construction Industry Federation (CIF) survey found that 22% of male construction workers in Ireland have experienced suicidal thoughts, and 6% have attempted suicide. These figures are not just statistics – they represent our colleagues, friends, and family members silently struggling silently beside us.
Additionally, 97% of professionals in the sector reported feeling stressed at least once in the past year (CIOB, 2022), with many citing chronic stress, burnout, and anxiety, which we all probably can relate to. Shockingly, construction workers are more likely to die by suicide than from workplace accidents.
Common stressors
Some of the common stressors aren’t isolated to the construction industry, however there are some though that we can’t change – such as job insecurity. As one worker told me, “If you are a good construction worker you are working yourself out of a job”. Due to this the workers may need to commute long hours to get to the location of work or move to the area. This can be extremely stressful and isolating for our workforce.
Mental health remains a taboo topic in many construction environments. Workers often fear being seen as weak or unreliable if they speak up. This stigma leads to under-reporting and untreated mental health issues, perpetuating a cycle of silence and suffering.
To foster a healthier construction industry in Ireland, a multi-level approach is essential. Employers can lead the way by appointing mental health champions such as mental health first aiders on-site, encouraging open conversations, and offering flexible work arrangements that promote work-life balance.
Industry bodies like the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) are promoting the importance of mental health and organisations such as the HSE and Mental Health Ireland to expand access to resources, such as the €2m allocation for Men’s Mental Health recently announced.
On an individual level, workers are encouraged to recognise early signs of stress, seek help without fear of stigma, and build strong support networks both professionally and personally. Together, these efforts can create a culture where mental wellbeing is prioritised as much as physical safety.
Mental health is not a luxury – it’s a necessity. As Ireland continues to build its future, we must ensure that the people behind the progress are supported, heard, and cared for. By breaking the silence and embracing change, the construction industry can become a model of resilience and wellbeing.
Sarah Faughnan will deliver the course: Mental Health First Aid for the Construction Industry – Online Classroom on Thursday, November 13. This Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) course is specifically tailored to address the unique pressures faced by construction professionals. It empowers participants to recognise signs of mental distress, respond appropriately, and foster a supportive work environment where mental wellbeing is prioritised alongside physical safety. By equipping individuals with practical tools and industry-relevant knowledge, this course aims to build a network of mental health advocates across construction sites, offices, and leadership teams – ultimately contributing to a healthier, more resilient workforce.
Please note that the CIF Safety Campaign takes place from October: https://cif.ie/safetycampaign/