Mental health challenges like anxiety and depression are increasingly common among construction workers. These issues affect safety, productivity, and business costs—but employers can take practical steps to reduce risk and support their teams.
A Growing Concern in the Construction Industry
Construction work is physically demanding, deadline-driven, and often unpredictable. For many workers in Santa Ana, California, these pressures add up.
A recent survey of more than 2,000 construction workers and executives found that nearly two-thirds experienced anxiety or depression in the past year. This highlights a growing issue the industry can no longer ignore.
Why Mental Health Matters for Jobsite Safety
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) now recognizes mental health and workplace stress as critical safety concerns.
According to OSHA:
- Stressed and fatigued workers are more likely to miss hazards
- Impaired concentration increases the risk of falls and struck-by incidents
- Anxiety and depression reduce focus, judgment, and reaction time
In short, mental health directly affects physical safety.
How Mental Health Impacts Business Performance
Beyond safety, untreated mental health issues can lead to:
- Increased absenteeism
- Higher turnover
- Slower project timelines
- More workers’ compensation and disability claims
For construction companies operating on tight margins, these impacts can be costly.
Key Findings from the Clayco Survey
A survey conducted by St. Louis-based construction firm Clayco revealed several concerning trends:
- 64% of workers reported anxiety or depression in the past 12 months
- 47% cited physical job demands as a major stressor
- 42% pointed to poor work-life balance
- 41% reported stress from tight deadlines
- 36% missed work due to mental health concerns
- 45% felt ashamed discussing mental health with coworkers
- 37% of those who sought help reported discrimination or unfair treatment
These findings show that stigma remains a major barrier to getting help.
Why Construction Has Been Slow to Address Mental Health
The construction industry has made major improvements in physical safety—fall protection, PPE, and equipment standards—but mental health has often been overlooked.
Unlike a visible injury, stress or depression can be harder to spot. Without training or awareness, supervisors may miss warning signs until performance or safety is affected.
What Construction Leaders Can Do
The good news is that proven, practical steps exist.
1. Treat Mental Health as a Safety Priority
Include mental health in:
- Safety policies
- Job hazard analyses
- Orientation programs
- Toolbox talks
Remind supervisors that stress and fatigue are risk factors, just like faulty equipment.
2. Train Supervisors to Recognize Warning Signs
Frontline leaders should be trained to notice:
- Sudden behavior changes
- Withdrawal or irritability
- Increased mistakes
- Substance misuse
OSHA and industry groups offer tools to help supervisors start supportive conversations.
3. Promote Available Support Services
Many companies already offer help, such as:
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
- Telehealth counseling
- Mental health hotlines
Make sure workers know these services exist and understand they are confidential.
4. Reduce Stigma Through Leadership
When leaders talk openly about stress, burnout, or seeking help, it sends a powerful message: it’s okay to ask for support.
5. Address Jobsite Stressors You Can Control
Review:
- Overtime expectations
- Travel demands
- Staffing levels
- Project schedules
Where possible, rotate assignments, build in recovery time after major pushes, and ensure workers can take breaks without penalty.
Why This Matters for Risk Management and Insurance
Mental health challenges can increase the likelihood of:
- Workplace injuries
- Workers’ compensation claims
- Long-term disability
- Higher insurance costs
Proactive mental health support isn’t just good for workers—it’s a smart risk-management strategy.
How Neighborhood Insurance Agency Can Help
Established in 1989, Neighborhood Insurance Agency is a trusted local provider in Santa Ana, California. We work with construction businesses to help them understand workers’ compensation, liability coverage, and risk-management strategies that support safer, more resilient teams.
Our approach is educational and practical—because preparation is the key to your peace of mind.
👉 Get a quote or talk to us today.
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Reference
Clayco. (2026). Combating Stigma: Mental Health and Support Issues in the Construction Industry. Retrieved from https://claycorp.com/latest/combating-stigma-mental-health-and-support-issues-in-the-construction-industry
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. (2024). Supporting Mental Health in the Workplace. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/blogs/2024/mental-health-work.html
