MATES in Construction’s latest research reveals promising progress in workers’ mental health, yet emphasises the need for continued, targeted support for at-risk groups within the industry.
MATES in Construction (MATES), a not-for-profit organisation, is committed to addressing mental health challenges in New Zealand’s construction sector. Its most recent study, the MATES Industry Well-being Survey supported by ASB, engaged over 2,000 workers. The findings are encouraging, showing that 85% of workers reported good mental health in November 2023, an increase from 75% in 2022 and 70% in 2021.
Despite the overall improvement in mental health within the construction industry, several groups remain particularly vulnerable. These include younger workers (aged 15-24), females, LGBTQIA+ individuals, those with poor social support, workers who are separated or divorced, and those living with disabilities, mental illness, or long-term health conditions.
In an industry known for its high-pressure environment, these groups often experienced increased psychological distress.
Dr. Lauren Donnan, MATES Research Lead, explains: “This research provides a benchmark for the sector to measure progress and focus on what matters to workers, ensuring MATES initiatives are targeted and effective. It highlights the importance of developing tailored mental health initiatives and enhancing support systems in the workplace.”
These findings are supported by the MATES Workplace Psychosocial Stressors Report, conducted with BRANZ and funded by the Building Research Levy. The study, which included 19 focus groups with 115 workers total, identified key workplace stressors contributing to mental health struggles. Common issues included financial instability, poor communication, low pay, entrenched “old school masculinity,” job insecurity, and a lack of mental health support.
Additionally, 25% of workers identified workload as a major concern, with factors like poor weather, high work demands, peer stress, and tight deadlines exacerbating these pressures. At home, challenges such as lack of sleep, exhaustion, relationship issues, and health concerns further impacted workers’ mental well-being.
Reflecting on the research, BRANZ Research GM Dr. Chris Litten says, “These new insights will help drive positive change in the industry and save lives. We are grateful to the workers who shared their experiences, contributing to this crucial conversation on mental health and suicide prevention.”
Despite these challenges, open discussions about mental health, workplace well-being and suicide prevention programs, and support from friends, whānau, colleagues, and the wider community are seen as crucial in maintaining workers’ well-being. These protective factors help create environments where workers feel safe discussing mental health and accessing support when needed.
A 2024 study from Central Queensland University highlights the immense cost of suicide in New Zealand’s construction industry, with 14% of national suicides in 2022/23 occurring in this sector—80 lives lost and over 1,600 workers taking time off due to self-harm. The cost of doing nothing is immense, with suicide in construction alone costing New Zealand $1.135 billion in 2023.
MATES’ work is crucial, with a return of $4.42 for every $1 invested, based on saving just one life annually. In 2023/24, MATES handled 427 case management clients, 1,099 Supportline calls, and 10 postvention cases, underscoring the continued demand for support.
This September, ASB, a proud MATES partner since June 2023, announced it would sponsor the MATES 24/7 Supportline. Ben Speedy, GM Commercial Banking at ASB, remarks, “Ensuring construction workers have immediate access to help when needed is something we take seriously. We’re proud to sponsor this life-saving service.”
The road ahead requires collective action, and MATES’ research is a powerful reminder that while progress is being made, there’s more to be done.
“As we build on the progress reflected in our research, we must recognise that mental health initiatives cannot be one-size-fits-all,” says John Chapman, CEO of MATES in Construction. “It will take effort across the board—from government, employers, and community partners—to build the necessary scaffolding of support. We all have a role to play in shaping an industry where no one falls through the cracks.”
“With continued kōrero (conversations), collaboration, and targeted support systems, the industry can further reduce the mental health burden and create a safer, more resilient workforce that thrives both on and off the job.”
Read the full research reports here, https://mates.net.nz/research
Check out these resources:
Anxiety New Zealand – 0800 ANXIETY (0800 269 4389)
Depression Helpline – 0800 111 757
Kidsline – 0800 54 37 54 (0800 kidsline) for young people up to 18 years of age. Open 24/7.
Lifeline – 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland.
Need to Talk? – Call or text 1737
Rural Support Trust – 0800 787 254 (0800 RURAL HELP).
Samaritans – 0800 726 666
Shakti Community Council – 0800 742 584
Shine (domestic violence) – 0508 744 633
Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
Supporting Families in Mental Illness – 0800 732 825
thelowdown.co.nz – email team@thelowdown.co.nz or free text 5626
What’s Up – 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
Women’s Refuge – 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
Youthline – 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
Stay updated with the latest news by subscribing to our newsletter. Don’t miss out on valuable insights and exciting updates—sign up now to stay connected!
