A recent mental health survey from Clayco of more than 2,000 construction workers and construction industry executives shows 64% of construction workers said they have experienced anxiety or depression during the past 12 months, which is up from 54% in the company’s 2024 survey. Forty-four percent of construction workers said they have used professional mental health services or support programs during the past 12 months compared with 34% in the 2024 survey.
Following are some additional findings from the survey, some of which indicate the stigma surrounding mental health remains an issue.
- Forty-five percent of construction workers said they would feel ashamed talking about their mental health, addiction or suicidal thoughts with their co-workers compared with 39% in Clayco’s 2024 survey.
- Of the construction workers who have used professional mental health services or support programs during the past 12 months, 37% said they have experienced discrimination or unfair treatment at work because of seeking mental health services or support.
- Twenty-one percent of construction executives said someone who disclosed an interest in seeking mental health services or support would be less likely to be assigned important tasks, and 30% said those individuals would be more closely monitored at work.
- Eighty percent of construction executives said workers have access to mental health support services on the job site, but only 61% of construction workers said they have mental health services available to them at work.
- Ninety-one percent of construction workers said they would be willing to support another construction worker who was experiencing depression compared with 94% in 2024.
Regarding the main reasons for anxiety or stress at work, 47% of construction workers cited the physical demands of the work; 42% cited poor work-life balance; and 41% cited tight deadlines to complete projects.
Did you know NRCA offers mental health resources? Visit NRCA's Mental Health webpage to learn more.
