As Blue Monday approaches, Nicola Hodkinson, owner and director of Seddon and trustee of Mates in Mind, brings attention to the underestimated challenges encountered by construction workers during the winter season
For many, the start of a new year often symbolises a period of renewed hope and resolutions. Yet, amidst the short, cold days of January, the construction industry confronts distinct challenges.
While not scientifically proven, the concept of Blue Monday—considered the most depressing day of the year—is rooted in factors like gloomy weather and the post-holiday slump, which can significantly impact mental health.
Charity Mates in Mind was established to tackle the silence surrounding mental health in construction and embed positive culture change.
It found male construction workers are almost four times more likely to die by suicide than the national average for men. This bleak fact makes it clear that, as an industry, we need to be vigilant when it comes to further stress factors such as the winter season.
A male-dominated culture often brings a stigma towards seeking support
Unfortunately, a stigma still persists in addressing mental health matters, underscoring the responsibility of employers to ensure that staff members feel supported and empowered to voice concerns like anxiety and low mood.
Women make up just 15% of the UK construction industry, with approximately 2% working on-site.
This statistic brings with it a dimension of male culture that, in certain instances, acts as a barrier, deterring construction workers from seeking essential help and support.
Factors and steps to consider when providing wellbeing support for your employees through the winter months
Preparing for wet and dark days
Cold and wet weather can significantly affect both physical and mental health, requiring careful consideration.
Colder temperatures demand more effort from the heart, as fatigue sets in more swiftly, and shorter days can contribute to feelings of depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Making sure that everyone has access to the right PP for colder and wet conditions can help mitigate the effects of this. From heavy jackets to thermal hard hat liners and face masks, always prioritise comfort, safety and suitability for the changing conditions.
Ensuring sites are brightly lit as well as implementing more frequent breaks compared to other seasons becomes crucial to mitigate lowered moods on site.
Additionally, providing a warm and dry refuge where workers can enjoy a hot beverage, dry off, and even a change of clothing is essential in fostering a supportive work environment.
Combatting loneliness and end-of-year burnout
Following the festive cheer, it’s essential to remember those who may find themselves without company during this time.
A recent survey revealed that 17% of people felt more lonely over the festive period. For those accustomed to the camaraderie of team-oriented work, spending the season alone can be particularly challenging.
Ensuring our workforce feels valued and seen in the workplace can help combat feelings of loneliness. Arranging more frequent team-building activities during this period can also aid workers in connecting and finding a support network of peers.
Acknowledging the perils of construction burnout and how these feelings can follow workers into the new year is crucial. A study named the construction industry as the sector to most likely cause burnout among its 3.1m UK workers.
It is important that your staff are working sensible hours, and to acknowledge the delicate balance between productivity and employee well-being. This approach not only safeguards against burnout but fosters a sustainable work culture.
Cost of living
In our industry, the winter season often marks a period of reduced activity, more downtime due to inclement weather and shorter daylight hours with projects either slowing down or grinding to a temporary halt.
Driving to and from work in the dark can also take its toll. The implications of this seasonal lull are particularly weighty, especially against the backdrop of the current cost of living crisis.
For individuals in construction, the prospect of work coming to a standstill can be a source of significant concern, exacerbated by the financial demands that coincide with this time of year, such as escalating heating bills and the financial commitments associated with gift-giving.
This results in workers’ levels of stress increasing in the New Year due to having spent more than they usually would over the festive period. At Seddon, we directly employ our workforce, meaning employees don’t need to worry about financial uncertainties if business activities decelerate during the winter months.
We also have an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and a Helping Hand Fund for any employees wh are struggling financially. However, this is not the case for a lot of workers across the sector. Pointing those struggling to free financial advice services or the Citizens Advice Bureau can help them find the support they need.
Encouraging conversation and providing resources
While discussing wellbeing may not immediately alleviate symptoms of depression or low mood among your workers, it has been proven to diminish stress levels. Facilitating conversations with your team allows you to gain insight into their emotional states and establishes a safety net for those grappling with difficulties.
Initiating conversations about mental health in construction can be challenging due to the shame and stigma surrounding depression.
Individuals experiencing distress may feel reluctant to share their feelings with peers.
That’s why it’s also vital to consistently share resources and services with those more comfortable discussing struggles with those not in their immediate circle.
Numerous free services with helplines provide an impartial and separate avenue for those seeking someone to talk to. Asking “how are you?”, not once but twice and being genuine can be the support someone needs.
Providing wellbeing training and assigning mental health first-aiders
Implementing wellbeing training and designating mental health first aiders is a non-negotiable all year round.
This training is invaluable for individuals in high-pressure work environments or those overseeing teams. It aids managers in recognising the impacts of stress and identifying signs and triggers within their teams.
Wellbeing training establishes structures and strategies to enhance resilience and performance and can ultimately save lives, ensuring no one slips through the net.
You wouldn’t think twice about assigning someone as a first aider, so a mental health first aider should be no different.
