Understanding psychosocial stressors in the construction industry is crucial for improving mental health outcomes. This research used qualitative methods, including 19 focus groups and 2 interviews with 115 industry workers, to explore these stressors and their impacts. It identified five key stressors: financial instability, poor communication, entrenched old-school masculinity, low pay and job insecurity, and insufficient mental health support. Proposed solutions include government intervention, better regulation, improved communication, supportive workplace cultures, and specific interventions like limits on overtime and mental health programs. Despite ongoing challenges, there is optimism as cultural change is evident, with increasing discussions on mental health and wellbeing in the sector.
This research has been supported by BRANZ, and is funded by the Building Research Levy
