Construction Industry Recognizes Importance of Mental Health Management, Strengthening Customized Psychological Support

Hanwha E&C is expanding its in-house psychological counseling center, 'Laforena,' to promote the mental well-being of its employees and foster a healthy organizational culture. Laforena is a psychological support system available not only to employees but also to their spouses, children, and employees of partner companies, offering various programs aimed at alleviating emotional difficulties and enhancing resilience.

Previously, individual programs such as psychological assessments and counseling, mobile counseling booths for on-site and branch employees, and online stress self-assessments were offered. Starting this year, based on employee feedback, non-face-to-face counseling channels and physical activity-based emotional recovery programs will be newly introduced. In particular, a 'Counselor Mail' service, allowing employees to anonymously seek advice, and mindfulness programs incorporating breathing exercises and stretching will be regularly operated from the first half of the year. Group programs include organizational psychology training for team building and couple/parent education to improve understanding and communication within families.

Park Ji-eun, Head of HR Operations Team at Hanwha E&C, emphasized, "Stress arises not only from work but also from all aspects of life," and added, "We will continue to support our employees in maintaining a healthy mind in various areas, including their work life, family relationships, and self-realization."

Recently, the construction industry has recognized that managing employees' mental health is a crucial factor in improving productivity and organizational culture, and is actively working to establish psychological support systems. Given the characteristics of the construction industry, which often involves long working hours and high work intensity, the stress and psychological difficulties experienced by employees cannot be overlooked.

In fact, major domestic construction companies are striving to manage the mental health of their employees through various means, such as operating in-house counseling centers, partnering with external specialized institutions, and providing mental health education programs. Hyundai E&C operates a 'Healing Center' providing professional counseling programs, while GS E&C has introduced a 'Mindfulness' meditation program to support employees' stress management. Samsung C&T Engineering & Construction Group also operates employee counseling programs to promote psychological stability and improve work efficiency.

This movement within the construction industry aligns with the growing emphasis on the importance of mental health across society. As corporate cultures shift away from hierarchical and competitive environments towards more horizontal cultures based on mutual respect and consideration, securing the psychological well-being of employees is emerging as a core element in strengthening corporate competitiveness.

Hanwha E&C's expansion of 'Laforena' can be seen as a reflection of this positive change. A psychological support system that encompasses employees, their families, and partner company employees demonstrates the company's social responsibility and is expected to enhance the happiness and satisfaction of its members, ultimately contributing to securing long-term growth drivers for the company. It is anticipated that active investment and interest in the mental health of employees will continue across various industries, including the construction sector.