Beyond toxic: improving the mental health of construction workers

Description

Mental health problems can weigh on many people. Feeling comfortable enough to seek help and talk can be lifesaving, and, according to the Productivity Commission, poor mental health is costing our economy at least $43 billion per year.

The construction industry has serious problems, with a suicide rate that is almost double the national average. Some researchers are claiming that a toxic, “macho” culture in some construction workplaces is partially to blame.

Guests:

Dr Donna Bridges, sociology researcher and lecturer at Charles Sturt University in Bathurst
Phil Hortz, field officer with Mates in Construction, which works to combat suicide in that sector