Depressive Symptoms Among South African Construction Workers: Associations with Demographic, Social and Work-Related Factors, and Substance Use

Abstract

The construction industry exhibits higher rates of depression in its workforce compared to other industries. This study investigates the association between the prevalence of depressive symptoms and various demographic (e.g., age, ethnicity, education), social, and work-related factors (e.g., relationship status, living environment, work situation) and behavioural factors (e.g., alcohol and drug use). Survey data collected from 496 male construction workers working in the Western Cape were analysed using binomial logistic regression to determine the associations. The results showed that 'Black African' construction workers exhibited lower levels of depressive symptoms than 'Other' ethnic groups, and workers with at least secondary education had the highest levels of depressive symptoms compared to workers with other levels of education. Workers who were single or living with other adults without children had a significantly higher risk of depression compared to those in other forms of family relationships. Substance use was found to be associated with lower levels of depressive symptoms, suggesting that construction workers use alcohol and drugs as a coping strategy for short-term depressive symptom reduction. Construction organisations should develop strategies to protect the mental health of construction workers, particularly those who are prone to depression.