Study shows high distress rates in construction workers
Every day, more than nine Queensland construction workers feel not in control, overwhelmed or unable to cope, a new Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research (QCMHR) study has found.
The team uncovered both the prevalence and demographics of construction workers in distress by identifying those who reported distress to four construction industry organisations between 2018 to 2020.
QCMHR Lead Investigator, Associate Professor Carla Meurk said the study identified that construction workers experienced various forms of distress including psychological issues, relationship problems, financial difficulties, and substance abuse.
“Those experiencing distress were mainly men around 40 years of age and around half of those reporting distress also required treatment for an injury suggesting a link between distress and physical injuries.
“We found evidence of physical injury occurring before a person identified distress, as well as cases where a person identified distress before experiencing an injury.
“We cannot tell whether the physical injury led to their distress, or whether a heightened state of distress led to their injury and further investigation into this area is needed.
“The findings highlight the need for holistic responses to effectively address the various factors that contribute to an individual's mental and physical health,” Assoc Professor Meurk said.
MATES in Construction Chief Executive Officer, Nick Thompson said there is an urgent need for collaboration between industry organisations and healthcare providers to better support people reaching out for help.
“Stronger partnerships and better industry-wide connections for early support are essential in addressing this issue,” Mr Thompson said.
“Understanding how and when people interact with health services and construction industry organisations can help ensure support is delivered at the right time and place.
“The study shows more targeted support after a workplace injury and extended follow-up processes could mitigate further distress and reduce the likelihood of future injuries.
“We all have a responsibility to foster a culture within the industry that offers help to people when they need it to create a safer and healthier work environment,” Mr Thompson said.
The findings call for policymakers, industry leaders and healthcare providers to work together to implement early interventions and effective strategies that promote well-being in the construction industry.
The study was funded by MATES in Construction and the Queensland Mental Health Commission and administered through The University of Queensland.
Established in 1987, QCMHR is funded by Queensland Health to work state-wide and contribute to the local, national, and global research efforts to improve mental health.
The full report, Strong minds, safe sites: enhancing mental and physical wellbeing in construction can be pdf viewed here (2.18 MB) .
For further information:
Associate Professor Carla Meurk, QCMHR, Lead Investigator
Nick Thompson, MATES in Construction, Chief Executive Officer
