Creating Mentally Healthy Workplaces
In 2024, Construction Safety Nova Scotia commissioned WorkInsights to conduct the first-ever comprehensive study of mental health in Nova Scotia’s construction industry. Our study examined how workplace conditions impact the mental health of frontline construction workers in Nova Scotia, with special attention to the critical relationship between employees and their managers or supervisors.
On July 7, 2025, we released the critical findings from this study titled, Creating Mentally Healthy Workplaces, revealing how workplace conditions in our industry directly impact employees’ mental health and well-being, and outline actionable strategies for fostering a healthier work environment.
Survey Results at a Glance
The survey had 1,171 respondents from across the Nova Scotia construction sector, representing diverse roles, company sizes and specializations. The findings reveal that high stress levels are at the centre of some of the industry’s leading mental and physical health challenges.
- Over 36% of the workforce experience high or very high stress—directly affecting productivity, safety, and turnover.
- High-stress environments lead to up to 60% more workplace incidents.
- 40% of the workforce is currently considering leaving due to stress, increasing costs and disrupting operations.
Additional findings include:
- 33% of workplace stress is directly linked to manager interactions, making supervisor support a key factor in worker wellbeing.
- 37% of employees are dissatisfied with their relationship with their manager.
- Positive manager relationships reduce turnover risk by 45% and lower stress-related impacts.
- 26% of respondents regularly use alcohol or drugs to cope with stress. Workers who rely on substances are 157% more likely to report poor mental health, highlighting the urgent need for improved support systems on the job.
- 35% of workers report experiencing discrimination or harassment, nearly doubling their risk of poor mental health.
- 50% of workers do not feel comfortable discussing mental health with colleagues.
Despite these challenges, the study also identified a strong foundation within Nova Scotia’s construction workforce. Over 81% of workers find genuine purpose in their work, 85% clearly understand their job expectations, and 74% feel they are part of a cohesive team. These positive elements demonstrate that many workers are engaged, providing a solid platform for employers to build and strengthen mental health supports that promote healthier, more resilient workplaces.
The study made three high-impact recommendations for construction industry employers:
- Expand access to therapy, especially through online platforms.
- Train and support managers, who are the most influential factor in worker mental health.
- Provide managers with the time and resources they need to lead psychologically safe teams.
In response to the survey, CSNS is expanding our current mental health programming with new training programs and resources launching later this year, including:
- Three new courses:
- Occupational Mental Health (e-learning for all workers)
- Opening the Door to Support (e-learning for supervisors)
- The Working Mind for the Trades (training for leaders)
- Establish an Member Assistance Program (MAP) in partnership with Merit Nova Scotia to provide mental health services for small construction companies
- New toolbox talks
To receive the latest details, including when this programming launches, subscribe to our newsletter or visit our mental health page.
