Cross-sectional study exploring the prevalence and associated risk factors for suicidality among apprentices in the Irish construction industry

Introduction: Suicide among male construction workers is reported to be disproportionally high compared with the working age population, with younger construction workers being at particular risk. However, there is limited understanding of the prevalence and associated factors for suicidal ideation, non-suicidal self-injury and suicide attempt among this occupational group globally or among apprentices pursuing this career. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of male Irish construction-related apprentices in Ireland (n = 651). We investigated the prevalence of suicidal ideation, non-suicidal self-injury and suicide attempts and sociodemographic, occupational and mental health factors associated with these three outcomes. A logistic regression with backward selection of variables was used to explore factors related to suicidal ideation, non-suicidal self-injury and suicide attempt. Results: The prevalence rate for suicidal ideation was 40.5%, 13.3% for non-suicidal self-injury and 9.3% for suicide attempt. Analysis of suicidal ideation showed previous mental health difficulties, levels of depression and low self-esteem remained significant. Analysis of non-suicidal self-injury showed living in rented accommodation, financial worries, previous mental health difficulties, levels of anxiety and depression remained significant factors in the final model. Analysis of suicide attempts showed living in rented accommodation, financial worries, previous mental health difficulties, levels of depression and low self-esteem remained significant. Conclusion: Suicidal ideation, non-suicidal self-injury and suicide attempt are significant issues for apprentices working in the construction industry. Findings highlight a need for support at an earlier stage in their journey. They also highlight the need for the early detection and treatment of generalised anxiety disorder, low self-esteem and depression in order to intervene in, and potentially prevent, suicidality among construction workers.