Mental health in the construction industry: vulnerabilities and psychosocial risks among diverse workers

Abstract Workers in the construction industry are at heightened risk of mental ill-health and suicide; however, a more nuanced understanding of risk factors is needed to inform prevention efforts. The current study aimed to identify workers most at risk of poor mental health and offer unique insights into both the prevalence and impact of workplace psychosocial risk factors among less commonly examined subgroups of workers. A nationwide survey was conducted with 710 workers from an Australian construction company. Differences in psychological distress (K10) were tested between demographic groups. Both the presence of psychosocial risk factors and their impact on distress were assessed and compared across various occupational roles. Women, younger, part-time/casual, and newer workers were particularly vulnerable to distress. Some of the most prevalent workplace risk factors were also among the most impactful on mental health (job role ambiguity/conflict; lack of job control). Others were less prevalent but highly impactful (bullying/harassment) or highly prevalent but less impactful (high job demands; long hours; lack of reward/recognition). Tradespeople, technical/analytical workers, office workers, and managers were equally at risk of poor mental health; however, each occupational category (and especially tradespeople) appeared disproportionately impacted by particular workplace risk factors. Prevention efforts should focus on particularly vulnerable industry subgroups and target risks with the potential to have the greatest impact. Various occupational groups appear equally in need of preventative action, although such efforts should account for the distinct risks experienced by these groups.