Breaking the Silence: Men’s Mental Health

This International Men’s Day, we’re shedding light on a critical but often silent issue: men’s mental health. Men in construction and engineering face unique challenges globally, with mental health struggles more prevalent here than in many other sectors. Sobering statistics show significantly higher rates of stress, depression, and even suicide among male workers. These numbers remind us that behind the physical demands of the job, many men face silent battles due to stigma and isolation. Here, Cundall colleagues share their experiences and insights on what mental health means to them and how we can address it together.

The challenges of male-dominated fields

In construction and engineering, men often grapple with intense pressures specific to the field. Swayze, structural engineer, describes the toll of these pressures: “One of the major issues men face in the industry is burnout. The pressure to ensure safety, functionality, and efficiency often leads to working beyond normal hours, causing exhaustion over time.”

In high-stakes environments, pressure builds under strict deadlines and high expectations. Steve, partner and mental health advocate, shares: “The industry is driven by fixed deadlines and penalty clauses, which creates a degree of stress, so any sign of ‘weakness’ in not being able to respond to that stress, can be seen as unacceptable. Many are struggling but feel they can’t express it under these demands as they may not have an outlet for that stress.”

Engineering's culture can make conversations around mental health seem off-limits, says George, graduate sustainability engineer: “In engineering’s male-dominated culture, it’s hard for some men to talk about their feelings. Just reinforcing the help available on a regular basis can make a big difference.”

Breaking stigma around men’s mental health

Many men grow up with societal expectations that discourage openness, associating vulnerability with weakness. In construction and engineering, these pressures can feel isolating. Colin, acoustics associate, notes: “From a young age, many men are taught to control emotions and toughen up, which can become an unspoken rule against vulnerability, even in the workplace.”

Mental health advocate, Rachel, believes breaking stigma starts with making mental health conversations feel natural and ongoing. “If we create environments where people feel free to simply talk, without having to ‘speak up’ only in times of crisis, it can create real change,” she says.

Paul, associate director and mental health advocate, highlights the importance of self-awareness: “Mental health challenges can gradually worsen if left unchecked. We need to encourage people to regularly check in with themselves in an honest way.”

Advice to peers: reaching out for support

Seeking help can be difficult, especially when mental health struggles make individuals feel isolated. Swayze shares how working abroad taught him the value of vulnerability: “Living away from my family, I’ve learned that it’s okay to show vulnerability and seek help. Life is hard enough without carrying everything alone.”

For those hesitant to open up, Colin suggests small steps, like being honest when asked, “How are you?” He explains, “You’d be surprised by the relief that can come from simply replying, ‘Not great,’ when someone asks how you’re doing.”

Rachel also encourages pushing past isolation, as mental health challenges often convince people they’re alone in their struggles. “Mental health conditions can make you feel like no one else has ever felt the way you’re feeling. Try to push past this isolation—it doesn’t need to define you.”

Sam, sustainability consultant, advises finding a safe environment for openness: “If you’re struggling, seek a place where people encourage openness, even if it’s outside of, or the opposite of, your usual comfort zone. These spaces might be exactly where you find understanding and support.”

Creating a supportive workplace culture

Creating a workplace where employees feel empowered to discuss mental health is an ongoing process. Paul suggests that leaders sharing their own experiences can play a crucial role: “It helps when leaders are visible and open about their experiences. When they share their stories, it inspires others to open up too.”

Cundall’s Wellness360 program offers employees access to mental health resources and regional support through Mental Health Advocates. Ensuring these resources are visible helps normalise mental health conversations and shows that prioritising well-being is a collective commitment.

Moving forward together

This International Men’s Day, we acknowledge the challenges men in construction and engineering face. The statistics and stories reveal a need for supportive, stigma-free workplaces. From openly discussing mental health to encouraging vulnerability, we’re committed to fostering an environment where everyone’s well-being is valued.

As Steve emphasises, “You don’t have to stay silent. Whether it’s reaching out to a mental health advocate or just grabbing a coffee with a colleague, talking can make all the difference.”

Through sharing these insights and supporting each other, we hope to inspire more conversations and create a workplace where all feel supported, no matter where they are in their mental health journey.