Take Action. Start the Conversation.
May 11th – May 17th
Mental Health Awareness Week is a reminder that awareness on its own is not enough. This year, the focus is on action. It is about the small, everyday things that can make a real difference to someone’s wellbeing.
In construction, pressure can build quickly. Tight deadlines, long hours, physical demands and job uncertainty can all take their toll. Many people keep things to themselves, carrying stress, worry or personal challenges without saying a word.
This campaign is about helping people take that first step. Checking in. Starting conversations. Knowing where to turn for support.
Sometimes, one simple question can make all the difference.
Why taking action matters in construction
Construction is a resilient industry, but mental health challenges are common and often hidden. Pressure, pace and resilience are often seen as strengths within the sector, but these same characteristics can make it harder for individuals to speak up or seek help.
Research from the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) highlights the scale of the issue:
- 97% of construction professionals have experienced stress
- 87% have experienced anxiety
- 70% have experienced depression
- 26% have experienced suicidal thoughts
- Only 29% would feel comfortable speaking to their employer about their mental health
These figures show not only how common mental health challenges are, but also why creating a culture where conversations feel safe and normal is so important.
Beneath the hard hats and high-vis, many people are coping with far more than others realise. Everyone has their own challenges, both inside and outside of work, and the culture of getting on with it can make it difficult to open up.
Creating an environment where conversations feel normal and support feels accessible is essential.
Mental Health Awareness Week Webinars
New for 2026 – Webinar Week! We are organising webinars throughout Mental Health Awareness Week so you and your staff can join, learn about what we do as a charity and what support is available to the construction industry and the allied trades:
Understanding Anxiety Training Module
Pressure, stress and worry can affect anyone, especially in demanding industries like construction.
This short awareness module explores what anxiety can look like, how it can affect thoughts, emotions, physical health and behaviour, and why many people may struggle without fully recognising the signs.
Special Feature for Mental Health Awareness Week – Going Beyond the Default
Sarah Bolton, CEO of the Lighthouse Charity on being authentic, fruit baskets and the importance of learning every day.
During Mental Health Awareness Week, Sarah Bolton, CEO of the Lighthouse Charity, offers her insight into the challenges of the construction industry, what’s working well and how we can all contribute to a positive mental health culture for the industry.
Download our ‘Mental Health Awareness Week ‘ assets, including graphics and social media copy.
