Four mental health events for construction companies

As the construction industry continues to suffer from high suicide rates, contractors are working more mental health events into their operations.

Construction is one of five industries with worker suicide rates significantly higher than other sectors; for every 100,000 male construction workers, 56 died by suicide in 2021, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The suicide rate in the general population is 32 men for every 100,000.

Construction Suicide Prevention Week, an effort between contractors and trade associations to bring the issue to light, will take place Sept. 9-13 this year.

The Associated General Contractors of Greater Milwaukee ahead of Construction Suicide Prevention Week shared four ideas companies can use to integrate mental health events and support their workers.

1. Toolbox talks

Organizations can extend their routine toolbox talks to include discussions about mental health, association officials said. These sessions are a chance to teach workers about the signs of mental distress and where to seek help, which also rids the stigma around mental health conversations

2. Workshops and training

Workshops led by mental health professionals are becoming more common for construction companies, officials said. The sessions give workers practical tools for managing stress, recognizing mental health issues and supporting their colleagues.

3. Wellness check-ins

Companies are adopting routine wellness check-ins to give one-on-one support, officials said. Supervisors and wellness officers perform check-ins to let workers discuss their mental health in a safe place. Some organizations also use anonymous surveys to gauge the overall mental well-being of their workforce and find areas where additional support is needed.

4. Memorial events

Memorial events, such as candlelight vigils or moments of silence, are a growing part of Construction Suicide Prevention Week, officials said.

With more mental health events integrated in the workday, workers who feel supported are more engaged, productive and loyal, association officials said. “Moreover, companies that prioritize mental health are likely to see reduced absenteeism, lower turnover rates and a more positive workplace culture,” they added.