Beyond Blue Monday: Addressing Real Mental Health Challenges in Construction
The Lost City – This is the city that will never be built
“Mental health in construction isn’t just a one-day issue—it’s a year-round commitment to building a supportive and resilient industry.”
– The Stair Guys
As we reflect on another “Blue Monday,” it’s crucial to recognise that mental health challenges in the construction industry persist year-round, not just on a single day manufactured by marketing campaigns. At The Stair Guys, we’re committed to fostering a supportive environment that prioritises mental well-being every day of the year.
91%
of workers have experienced stress or poor mental health at work
29%
have contemplated suicide
73%
feel their employer doesn't provide adequate mental health support
17%
feel comfortable discussing mental health with their employer
35%
have considered leaving the industry due to poor mental health
95%
believe more mental health support is needed in construction
87%
feel there's a stigma around mental health in the industry
Our Personal Journeys
As co-owner of The Stair Guys, my journey with mental health has been challenging but transformative. Therapy has been instrumental in my recovery, providing tools to manage stress and develop resilience. I continue to attend monthly sessions, which have been crucial in maintaining my mental well-being.
My business partner, Tom Abbott, found support through Andy’s Man Club, a peer support group that offers free weekly meetings across the country. Tom shares, “Andy’s Man Club was a game-changer for me. It showed me I wasn’t alone and that it’s okay to talk about what I was going through.”
Sharing Our Story
Just before Christmas, I had the opportunity to appear on ‘The Talking Tradesman’ podcast with Russ. The episode, which aired over the Christmas period, allowed me to discuss my mental health challenges and other important topics. This experience reinforced the importance of open dialogue about mental health in our industry. The podcast, available at The Talking Tradesman, is a valuable resource for tradespeople looking to engage with these crucial conversations.
Our Commitment to Change
As a small team of just three at The Stair Guys, we’ve tailored our approach to mental health support to fit our size and close-knit structure:
- Regular check-ins with each other
- Flexible working arrangements
- Promoting mental health resources
- Leading by example
- Supporting each other’s mental health initiatives
- Skill sharing and stress management
- Regular team activities
Breaking the Stigma
The stigma surrounding mental health in construction remains a significant barrier to seeking help. As industry leaders, we have a responsibility to challenge this stigma every day, not just when the calendar or marketing campaigns tell us to.
A Call to Action
If you’re struggling, remember that you’re not alone. There are various avenues for support, whether it’s professional therapy or peer support groups like Andy’s Man Club. For those in the industry looking to make a difference, consider supporting Project 7000.
Branded by Sammi is offering a range of The Lost City merchandise, with all profits going to charitable causes.
Let’s work together to build a healthier, more supportive construction industry. Contact The Stair Guys today to learn more about our commitment to mental health.
