The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is marking Stress Awareness Month (April) by calling on construction business owners and tradespeople to prioritise their mental health amid rising pressures across the industry.
As reported in the FMB's State of Trade survey, small and medium-sized building companies are facing mounting challenges including labour shortages, rising material costs, late payments and fluctuating workloads – all of which can take a significant toll on mental wellbeing.
The construction industry has historically struggled with mental health, with self-employed tradespeople often working in isolation and business owners juggling multiple responsibilities without adequate support networks.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: "Running a small building business can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with intense pressures that many people don't see. From chasing late payments to managing workforce challenges and dealing with difficult customers, the stress can quickly become overwhelming. During Stress Awareness Month in April, we want to remind our members that it's okay to ask for help and that looking after your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health. The construction industry is getting better at talking about these issues but we still have a long way to go. If you're struggling, please reach out – whether to colleagues, friends, family, or professional support services."
The FMB encourages construction professionals experiencing stress or mental health difficulties to access support through organisations such as the Lighthouse Charity, which provides emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support to construction workers and their families, and Andy's Man Club, which runs weekly peer-to-peer support groups across the UK.
Sarah Bolton, CEO of the Lighthouse Charity added: “Stress Awareness Month is a chance to pause, take stock, and think about how to keep pressure manageable, both as individuals and as employers. Pressure can be useful when it helps people stay focused, but when that pressure doesn’t ease, stress can start to build and lead to burnout. Employers can implement small changes that make a big difference, such as setting realistic expectations, encouraging breaks, and keeping communication clear to reduce unnecessary pressure. Making support visible and normalising conversations about wellbeing, including stress also encourages people speak up earlier and seek support if they need it.”
The UK's largest construction trade body also offers its members business support services, including advice on credit control, contract disputes, and workforce management – all designed to help alleviate some of the pressures that contribute to stress.
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