Ryan FowlerThe Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is urging the construction sector to address mental health stigma following a podcast discussion in which one of its members spoke openly about his own struggles.
David Gutierrez, director at Nest Building Group and FMB London director, described experiencing what he called a “mini breakdown” after struggling with his mental health over a prolonged period.
Gutierrez said: “If you love getting up in the morning, going to work, as soon as you feel that you’re in bed and you wake up and you feel sick or you feel scared. I felt like I just didn’t want to get out of bed. I didn’t want to move.”
Speaking on the podcast, he also reflected on the death of a bricklayer he followed online. Gutierrez said: “What a fantastic bricklayer he was. Personality wise, he was fantastic. Everything just was all there. And he took his own life. Why? Because we don’t talk. We’re in our own heads.”
The discussion comes during Mental Health Awareness Week and follows research from the Chartered Institute of Building showing widespread mental health challenges across the construction industry. According to the figures, 94% of construction workers experienced stress over the past year, while 83% reported anxiety and 60% experienced depression.
Male construction workers are reported to be three times more likely to die by suicide than the national average, with 355 people working in skilled construction and building trades taking their own lives during 2024.
Brian Berry, chief executive officer at the Federation of Master Builders, said: “Mental health in construction is no longer something we can sweep under the carpet. The statistics are stark and sobering. Too many skilled tradespeople are suffering in silence because they don’t feel they can ask for help.
“Small building firms are the backbone of this industry, and employers have a responsibility to create environments where workers feel safe to speak up. That means having honest conversations, training managers to spot the warning signs, and making sure everyone knows what support is available. Breaking the stigma starts with us.”
Gutierrez said opening up to his wife was the first step towards seeking support. He said: “My children need a dad and my wife needs a husband. Before it gets any worse, I needed to make a change.”
Sarah Bolton, chief executive officer at the Lighthouse Charity, said: “Mental Health Awareness Week helps shine a spotlight on all of the amazing work that is being done to promote a positive mental health culture in our industry. Our key message is to encourage individuals to reach out for support at an early stage, no matter what the issue.”
