A Comprehensive Review of Mental Health and Well-being Interventions in the Construction Industry

11 pages•Published: July 23, 2025

Sherona Simpson and Mohammed Hashem Mehany

Abstract

The construction industry faces significant mental health challenges due to its demanding physical conditions, transient employment nature, and entrenched cultural stigmas. This comprehensive review examines key stressors such as job insecurity, hazardous work environments, and the "macho" workplace culture that contribute to elevated rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide among construction workers. It explores intervention strategies including workplace-based programs, technology-driven tools, and emerging frameworks for promoting positive mental health. Peer-led initiatives like MATES in Construction reduce stigma and enhance support systems, while digital tools such as apps and real-time stress monitors increase accessibility and privacy. A multi-tiered approach encompassing primary, secondary, and tertiary interventions is recommended to address mental health holistically. Additionally, this review advocates a shift from reactive to proactive strategies, emphasizing well-being through positive mental health promotion. Despite progress, barriers such as stigma and resource constraints hinder implementation. Future directions include longitudinal studies to assess intervention efficacy, tailored programs for underrepresented groups, and scalable solutions for smaller firms. By integrating these strategies, the construction industry can foster a more resilient workforce, improving productivity and overall well-being. This paper highlights the need for systemic change to address mental health challenges and sustain the sector’s social and economic contributions.

Keyphrases: health and safety, mates in construction, mental health interventions, stressor

In: Wesley Collins, Anthony J. Perrenoud and John Posillico (editors). Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 61st Annual International Conference, vol 6, pages 903-913.

Links:	https://easychair.org/publications/paper/ZJq52
	https://doi.org/10.29007/5dqh

BibTeX entry

@inproceedings{ASC2025:Comprehensive_Review_Mental_Health,
  author    = {Sherona Simpson and Mohammed Hashem Mehany},
  title     = {A Comprehensive Review of Mental Health and Well-being Interventions in the Construction Industry},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 61st Annual International Conference},
  editor    = {Wesley Collins and Anthony J. Perrenoud and John Posillico},
  series    = {EPiC Series in Built Environment},
  volume    = {6},
  publisher = {EasyChair},
  bibsource = {EasyChair, https://easychair.org},
  issn      = {2632-881X},
  url       = {/publications/paper/ZJq52},
  doi       = {10.29007/5dqh},
  pages     = {903-913},
  year      = {2025}}

Download PDF Open PDF in browser