Data show construction industry workers struggle with mental health issues at a greater rate than other industries.
Mental health issues can affect any industry, but construction workers seem to be at a greater disadvantage. According to Construction Dive, construction workers face higher rates of mental health issues and suicide than the general population, with about 15% of suicides from 2013 to 2020 involving those in the construction industry. However, improving the well-being of construction workers may be more easily achievable than it seems. Addressing the root causes and offering better employee benefits and resources can significantly lower suicide rates. For instance, a study found that states that have paid family medical leave reported a 60% reduction in female suicides and a 21% drop in male suicides compared with states that did not have these laws in place. Paid vacation time also correlated with a 7% reduction in male suicide and a 32% reduction in sucide rates for women.
Allison Weingarten, senior analyst for Washington, D.C.-based professional services firm MDB , who presented a case study on a New York union’s assistance program, shared similar data during the webinar.
In a survey of apprentices in the International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 1, 43% said paid sick leave was the biggest condition they’d change.Read more
