What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to synthesize existing evidence on how social and workplace factors affect mental health in the construction industry, as well as the impact of interventions on productivity.

June 12, 2026

Workplace Mental Health in Construction: A Decade of Evidence on Determinants, Interventions, and Productivity Impacts

Key Points

This research aims to synthesize existing evidence on how social and workplace factors affect mental health in the construction industry, as well as the impact of interventions on productivity.
Conducted a systematic search across Web of Science, ProQuest Central, and PubMed.
Identified 51 peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2024.
Integrated findings through narrative synthesis.
Depression, anxiety, and burnout were commonly reported mental health issues.
Key determinants included insecure employment and poor communication.
Interventions like peer support and leadership strategies improved worker productivity and well-being.

Abstract

Objective: To synthesize evidence on how social determinants and workplace factors shape mental health in construction and how interventions influence productivity. Methods: A systematic search of Web of Science, ProQuest Central, and PubMed identified 51 peer-reviewed studies published from 2014 to 2024; findings were integrated through narrative synthesis. Results: Depression, anxiety, substance use, suicidal ideation, stress, burnout, and sleep problems were recurrent. Key drivers included insecure employment, masculine workplace culture, poor communication, weak support, and exclusion of women and migrant workers. Peer support, empathetic leadership, and integrated workplace mental health policies help reduce absenteeism, improve safety performance, and enhance productivity. Conclusions: Mental health in construction is shaped by intertwined structural and workplace factors; multilevel interventions can improve worker well-being and productivity. The review offers a construction-specific framework connecting determinants, mental health, interventions, and organizational performance.

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