stress awareness month 2026.
How can the construction industry tackle rising stress levels? As we mark International Stress Awareness Month, it is clear the construction industry still faces a significant mental health crisis, particularly among its male workforce. Key findings from the CIOB Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025 report show high levels of poor mental health within the industry, with 94% experiencing stress over the past year, 83% experiencing anxiety and 60% experiencing depression.
The theme for Stress Awareness Month April 2026 is #BeTheChange, a movement aimed at turning awareness into action, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's quote, “Be the change you want to see in the world”. Organised by The Stress Management Society, the campaign focuses on personal empowerment to reduce stress and raising awareness of the importance of effective stress management.
At Randstad, we are proud to announce the renewal of our partnership with the Lighthouse Charity. Together, we are committed to providing personal and professional wellbeing support to the 2.05 million people making up the UK construction workforce in 2026.
mental health in construction: building resilience for stress awareness month 2026.
According to the 2026 Randstad Workmonitor insights, work-life balance and workplace wellbeing are the top priorities for talent across the UK. In the construction sector, "good work" encompasses both physical safety on-site and psychological safety.
key statistics: impact on construction industry
insights from the Randstad workmonitor 2026.
The demand for a more empathetic workplace is a fundamental shift in the UK labour market. This evolution is evidenced by the Randstad Workmonitor. In 2024, 47% of UK workers said they would quit a job that negatively affected their personal life, which has now increased to 58% of UK workers in 2026. According to the Randstad Workmonitor 2026, work-life balance has firmly established itself as the primary lever for retention, with 51% of UK talent citing it as the main reason they stay in a role, more than double the 22% who stay for pay.
For the construction sector, these data points reveal UK workers are moving away from traditional career climbing in favour of all-round wealth, where mental health is equally sought out as much as competitive salary. By partnering with the Lighthouse Charity, we are aligning our recruitment and retention strategies with these labour market shifts, ensuring the construction industry remains a sustainable and attractive career choice for a generation of talent that defines success through positive wellbeing.
5 practical stress management tips for construction workers.
To support our workforce, we’ve teamed up with the Lighthouse Charity to highlight actionable steps for managing occupational stress and burnout:
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utilise the "make it visible" on-site tools.
The #MakeItVisible campaign is designed to bring support directly to the frontline. Look for posters and QR codes on-site to access the Construction Industry Helpline App. This digital tool provides a private way to manage any form of stress.
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practice the "talk-5" initiative.
In an industry where a macho culture can lead to silence, taking five minutes for an authentic check-in can be life-saving. Peer support is one of the strongest buffers against workplace anxiety.
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access financial wellbeing support.
The Lighthouse Charity provide vital financial aid for families facing hardship. Reducing financial pressure is a direct way to lower stress and improve focus on the job.
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recognise the signs of "pleasanteeism".
Many workers feel they must put on a brave face. Site managers should be trained to spot the signs of pleasanteeism, where a worker appears fine but is actually struggling. Early intervention via a Mental Health First Aider is key.
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save the 24/7 helpline number.
Ensure every member of your team has the Construction Industry Helpline saved:
- UK: 0345 605 1956
- ROI: 1800 939 122
- Text: HARDHAT to 85258
frequently asked questions (FAQ).
what is the Lighthouse Charity?
The Lighthouse Charity is the only health and safety charity 100% dedicated to providing emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support to the construction community in the UK and Ireland.
how does Randstad support mental health in construction?
Randstad partners with the Lighthouse Charity to provide workers with 24/7 helpline access and self-help resources, ensuring that mental health is treated with the same priority as physical site safety.
what did the Randstad workmonitor find regarding wellbeing?
The report highlights that workers are increasingly prioritising employers who offer comprehensive mental health support, with many prepared to leave roles that do not support a healthy work-life balance.
constructing a support network
Our partnership with the Lighthouse Charity ensures no one in our industry has to feel alone. This Stress Awareness Month, let’s move beyond the stigma and build a foundation of support that lasts all year round.
