Mental Health Stigma and Wellbeing Among Commercial Construction Workers: A Mixed Methods Study
Mara Eyllon1, Steven P Vallas, Jack T Dennerlein
1Department of Health Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (Drs Eyllon, Lincoln), Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Drs Eyllon), Institute for Health Equity and Social Justice Research, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (Dr Eyllon, Dr Lincoln, Dr Garverich, Ms Owens), Department of Anthropology and Sociology, College of Arts and Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (Drs Vallas, Lincoln) and Department of Physical Therapy, Movement, and Rehabilitation Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (Dr Dennerlein, Mr Weinstein).
Mental health stigma negatively impacts construction workers' wellbeing, increasing psychological distress and sleep issues. Addressing stigma through peer support and HR is crucial for this industry.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Mental Health Research
- Sociology of Work
Background:
- Mental health stigma is a significant issue in many industries.
- The construction industry has a unique culture that may exacerbate mental health challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between mental health stigma and wellbeing.
- To explore the experiences of commercial construction workers regarding mental health stigma.
Main Methods:
- A sequential quantitative-to-qualitative mixed methods approach was employed.
- 264 workers completed surveys, with logistic regression analyzing associations.
- Thematic analysis was used for data from key informant interviews and focus groups.
Main Results:
- Mental health stigma was significantly linked to psychological distress and impaired sleep.
- Substance abuse was not significantly associated with stigma in this sample.
- Workers identified industry masculinity and job insecurity as contributors to stigma.
Conclusions:
- Worksite mental health stigma acts as a barrier to care for construction workers.
- Peer support initiatives and enhanced human resources strategies show promise for mitigation.
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