Mental Health Awareness
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), workers in the construction industry have the highest suicide rate of any industry in the U.S.—four times higher than the general population. In fact, more construction workers die by suicide than from all workplace injuries combined, based on data from the CDC and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The construction industry faces unique stressors that can significantly impact mental health:
- High- Pressure Environments: Tight deadlines and demanding projects.
- Physical Demands: Strenuous labor and risk of injury.
- Job Insecurity: Fluctuations in work availability.
- Isolation: Long hours away from family and social support.
- Stigma: Reluctance to seek help due to a culture of toughness.
"It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light." ~ Aristotle
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Look for these signs in yourself or others:
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose.
- Withdrawing from friends, family, and activities.
- Increased substance use (alcohol and/or drugs).
- Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or excessive sleeping).
- Giving away possessions or saying goodbye.
- Aggressive behavior or increased irritability.
Pay attention to these statements and if you notice these signs, take the person seriously and TAKE ACTION.
- "I wish I weren't here."
- "I feel like a burden to everyone."
- "Nothing matters anymore."
- "It would be better if I were dead."
Next Steps
We have prepared a guide that provides resources and information to help recognize warning signs, offer support, and promote a culture of mental well-being on every jobsite. This guide is a starting point. Take the following steps to further promote suicide awareness and prevention:
- Share this guide with your colleagues and employees.
- Post contact information for support resources on job sites.
- Organize mental health training for your team.
- Create a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.