The construction industry is facing an unprecedented crisis with construction workers dying by suicide, and this tragedy requires our attention. Data show that the construction industry had the second-highest rate of worker suicide, behind only mining, and builders in Missouri and Kansas are at risk.
Four factors show a population uniquely vulnerable. First, construction workers are aging. Second, men — who make up nearly 85% of this workforce — are four times more likely to die by suicide than women. Third, construction is a natural career choice for veterans, who have valuable and transferable skills — and veterans’ suicide rate is 57% higher than the general population. Fourth, younger construction workers are inundated by the influences and pressures of social media, which can affect self awareness and increase peer pressure.
Ending this national tragedy requires addressing mental health in the construction industry and giving workers the tools they need to recognize and protect their emotional well-being. Americans spend many hours each week in the workplace, making it a touchpoint for providing access to mental health resources. Across the construction sector, we must incorporate mental health and wellness as core business values.
We at Associated Builders and Contractors Heart of America are committed to assisting employers in creating safer cultures, providing education to identify and help those at risk, raising awareness about this crisis and normalizing conversations around suicide and mental health. Other resources available to employers include suicide prevention training, the Suicide Prevention Lifeline call center, the Crisis Text Line and the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention.
Additionally, ABC Heart of America has incorporated suicide awareness and prevention into the rigorous safety programs merit shop construction companies have in place, including our apprenticeship programs.
Employers can also implement resources for total human health, which incorporates a whole person approach to engage workers’ body, mind, heart and soul; psychological safety that is respectful of all workers; acknowledgment of the risk of distraction and impairment; and responding with appropriate care.
Incorporating total human health into company cultures will help reach the goal of creating a zero-suicide industry.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or is considering suicide, know that you are cared for and that resources are available. Call or text 988 if you are in crisis.
Joe Riedel is vice president of business development and marketing for Straub Construction in Kansas City, and chair of the board of directors of Associated Builders and Contractors Heart of America.
