Mental health in construction is a crisis that’s been overlooked for too long. With suicide rates nearly four times higher than the national average, the industry is facing an urgent challenge. But while the statistics are shocking, real change will only come from action. That’s why Chris Rodgers is on a mission.
In the latest episode of the Build & Thrive podcast, we sat down with Chris to talk about his incredible challenge: running 500 miles in full PPE to raise awareness for mental health in construction and support Mates in Mind, a charity dedicated to improving wellbeing in the industry.
Chris’s challenge is as gruelling as it is symbolic. Running in hard hat, gloves, steel-toe boots, overalls, and carrying a two-foot flag, he’s pushing his limits to highlight the very real struggles construction workers face every day.
🚨 If you prefer to listen or watch the full conversation, check out the podcast here:
🎧 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2431164 (or search your podcast app)
📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEoibJLDuFnnT3qSQw37LKPG6xlyvCj7B
Now, let’s break down some of the key takeaways from our conversation with Chris and why his mission matters.
The Reality of Mental Health in Construction
💡 “We always say, ‘Come to work and go home in the same condition.’ But I believe we can go home in a BETTER place.” – Chris Rodgers
Chris’s journey into mental health advocacy started when he came across a staggering statistic: in 2021, 507 construction workers took their own lives. As a father, he couldn’t shake the thought: what if suicide took me away from my daughter? That moment changed everything.
He realised that while mental health is often discussed in the industry, the stigma remains strong. Many workers still feel that speaking up is a sign of weakness. Chris’s mission isn’t just about raising awareness—it’s about breaking that stigma and encouraging real conversations.
Why is Mental Health in Construction So Bad?
Chris identified three major factors that contribute to the crisis:
1. Distance: Isolation from Family & Support
🔹 Many construction workers spend long hours away from home, either commuting or working on remote sites.
🔹 This creates isolation, as they miss out on family time, support networks, and social connections.
🔹 Over time, this lack of connection can lead to feelings of loneliness, stress, and depression.
💬 “Construction workers leave the house before anyone else is awake and get home after everyone’s asleep. That’s not just tough—it’s dangerous for mental health.” – Chris Rodgers
2. Pressure: Deadlines & Commercial Expectations
🔹 The construction industry is financially driven with aggressive timelines.
🔹 Tight deadlines put enormous pressure on workers and managers, leading to stress, burnout, and mental exhaustion.
🔹 Mistakes are not easily forgiven, and the fear of job loss only adds to the anxiety.
3. Pay & Job Security: The Hidden Burden
🔹 Many workers are on self-employed contracts, meaning no work, no pay—forcing them to work through illness and mental health struggles.
🔹 Payment delays are common, leaving small contractors and workers financially vulnerable.
🔹 The stress of uncertain pay can lead to sleepless nights, increased anxiety, and even depression.
Chris pointed out that while big companies have mental health support programs, the majority of construction workers—who are subcontractors—don’t have access to the same resources. This leaves many struggling alone.
Learning from Other Industries: The Formula 1 Example
Chris compared construction’s mental health crisis to the way Formula 1 once accepted driver fatalities as part of the sport.
💬 “Years ago, Formula 1 teams expected to lose one or two drivers a year. That was just ‘normal.’ It wasn’t until they came together as an industry that they made real changes—and now it’s rare to see a fatality.” – Chris Rodgers
The construction industry needs a similar shift. It’s not enough to just talk about mental health—we need systemic change in how workers are supported.
Chris’s 500-Mile Challenge: What It Represents
Running 500 miles in full PPE is no small feat. Here’s why Chris chose this challenge:
✅ Symbolism: Construction workers operate in extreme conditions every day. Running in PPE reflects their daily struggles.
✅ Visibility: Seeing someone running in steel-toe boots, a hard hat, and carrying a flag makes people stop and take notice.
✅ Conversation Starter: The challenge sparks dialogue—about mental health, suicide prevention, and what the industry can do better.
💬 “If you see me running, give me a shout, give me a beep. I need that support, and so do the thousands of people struggling with mental health in this industry.” – Chris Rodgers
Chris is also documenting his journey on TikTok and Instagram, sharing mental health insights, industry challenges, and personal reflections along the way.
👉 Follow Chris’s journey: [Social Media Links]
What Can YOU Do to Support?
Chris’s challenge isn’t just about his journey—it’s about getting the industry involved. Here’s how you can help:
1. Start the Conversation
🚧 Normalise mental health discussions at work.
🚧 Encourage colleagues, leaders, and teams to check in with each other.
🚧 Educate yourself on how to spot the signs of someone struggling.
2. Advocate for Change
🏗️ If you’re a leader, ensure mental health is prioritised alongside physical safety.
🏗️ Push for better working conditions, fairer pay structures, and realistic deadlines.
🏗️ Make sure subcontractors have access to mental health resources—not just full-time employees.
3. Support Chris’s Mission
🎗️ Donate to Mates in Mind to fund mental health support in construction.
🎗️ Follow & share Chris’s journey to spread awareness.
🎗️ Run with Chris! If you’re near one of his running routes, join him in solidarity.
🔗 Donate & Support Here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/500miles500lives
Final Thoughts: The Power of Action
Chris’s mission is a powerful reminder that one person can make a difference.
His message is clear: mental health in construction must be taken as seriously as physical safety. If we truly want a healthier, happier workforce, it’s time for action, not just awareness.
If you found this blog valuable, check out the full episode:
🎧 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2431164 (or search your podcast app)
📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEoibJLDuFnnT3qSQw37LKPG6xlyvCj7B
The more we talk about it, the closer we get to real change. Let’s make mental health a priority in construction.
Join the Conversation!
Do you have experiences or thoughts on mental health in construction? Drop a comment below or share this post to help break the stigma.
Together, we can build a stronger, safer, and healthier construction industry.
And finally, a huge thank you to GKR Scaffolding for sponsoring the first series of the Build & Thrive podcast, we highly appreciate your support!
At Construction Health & Wellbeing, we’re here to help businesses like yours prioritise health and wellbeing. Contact us today to learn how we can support your journey.
Learn more about the people and businesses mentioned in this blog:
Jennie Armstrong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniearmstrong/
Construction Health & Wellbeing: https://constructionhealth.co.uk/
Mates in Mind: https://www.matesinmind.org/
🔗 Follow Chris & support his challenge:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/500miles500lives/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@500miles500lives
JustGiving: https://www.justgiving.com/page/500miles500lives
GKR Scaffolding (sponsor): https://gkrscaffolding.co.uk/
