Mental health in the construction industry is a growing concern, especially for men. According to the Centers for Disease Control, construction has the highest suicide rate of all industries, at 53.2 suicides per 100,000 workers. That’s about four times greater than the national average (17.3/100,000) and five times greater than all other construction fatalities combined (10.1/100,000). In fact, suicide could rightfully top the list of OSHA’s Fatal Four Hazards, which unfortunately garner a lot more attention.
The stigma around mental health discussions—particularly among men—causes individuals to suffer in silence and not seek help. This can lead to serious consequences, such as increased risk of suicide. Companies in the construction industry have a role to play in addressing mental stress among their employees. Employers should provide resources and support for those struggling with mental health issues, create an open dialogue about mental health, and ensure everyone can access proper care.
Recognizing the signs of mental health issues and taking action early on is crucial to preventing serious consequences such as suicide. Some common symptoms of depression and anxiety in construction workers include loss of interest in usual activities, changes in appetite or sleep habits, low mood, or irritability, and expressing feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.
If you notice these symptoms in yourself or someone else, it’s important to take action. Encouraging someone to reach out to a healthcare provider or a mental health professional is a great first step. Here are some additional resources that can be helpful:
- OSHA offers a variety of training and educational resources related to mental health in the workplace. Visit their website to access these resources.
- The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has a helpline that provides free resources, information, and support to individuals and family members affected by mental health conditions. Their hotline can be reached at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides a national helpline for individuals and families struggling with mental health or substance abuse issues. Their helpline can be reached at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
- Encourage someone in a crisis to reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This line is available 24/7, and can be reached at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
It’s past time we start taking action toward improving mental health in the construction industry. We need more awareness around this issue so that people feel comfortable discussing it without fear or shame. With proper resources and support from employers, we can ensure that everyone in this sector can access the care they need for their mental well-being.