Psychological distress among male construction workers in Australia: a systematic analysis

The construction industry, particularly in Australia, grapples with significant levels of psychological distress (PD) among its workforce, notably impacting male workers. In recent times, PD has emerged as a pressing concern, adversely affecting on-site safety, construction efficiency, and the broader personal realms of workers, including familial and interpersonal relationships. This research aims to elucidate the spectrum of psychological distress experienced by male workers within the Australian construction sector and explore effective strategies for mitigating these distress levels. Employing a systematic literature review methodology, this study utilised the Scopus database and reduced the number to 28 from 764 by undergoing meticulous screening to ensure alignment with key themes such as PD, construction, male workers, and mental health. Another three more articles were included after reviewing the references. Analysis of diverse scholarly perspectives reveals stress, anxiety, and depression as the predominant psychological distresses afflicting this demographic. Moreover, the literature underscores key interventions to alleviate PD, encompassing robust organizational and industry support mechanisms, targeted health and safety training initiatives, and fostering open and constructive communication channels. By synthesising insights from a range of scholarly sources, this research contributes to a deeper comprehension of the multifaceted issues surrounding the mental well-being of male construction workers, offering valuable insights for stakeholders aiming to cultivate a healthier and more supportive work environment in the construction industry. Future research endeavours should aim to address the limitation of providing real-time data from firsthand investigation.