Mental health in construction is often treated as taboo, despite its prevalence in this tough industry. This stigma prevents many workers from discussing their mental health or seeking help, which leads to alarming suicide rates, substance abuse, divorce, and other unaddressed mental health concerns.

By opening the conversation and utilizing resources like Peer Advocacy, Mental Health First Aid, Psychological First Aid, and Suicide Prevention skills, we can create a more supportive, inviting, and mentally healthy work environment.

Suicide Rates and Substance Abuse in the Construction Industry

The construction industry has some of the highest suicide rates among all occupational groups. In 2022, the suicide rate for male construction workers was 56 per 100,000, compared to 32 per 100,000 for males in the general workforce [1]. Substance abuse is also a significant concern, with approximately 16.5% of construction workers reporting heavy alcohol use and 11.6% reporting illicit drug use [2].

Figure 1: Source: SAMHSA, Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality, National Surveys on Drug Use and Health (NSDUHs) 2008 to 2010 (revised March 2012) and 2011 to 2012.

The Anxiety of Silence and Isolation

In fields like construction, expressing emotions is often viewed as a sign of weakness or vulnerability. This belief can lead to an overwhelming sense of anxiety, especially when workers feel they have no one to confide in about their stress, fears, or depressive symptoms, which can manifest in physical symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and panic attacks.

The requirement to “keep it all in” and maintain a stoic, strong exterior can lead to intense feelings of isolation. With time, this internalized stress can exacerbate mental health issues, leading to more severe consequences like substance abuse or suicidal ideation.

The Role of a Peer Advocate

Peer Advocacy aligns with lean construction principles by emphasizing the value of collaboration and respect for workers. A Peer Advocate uses their experience with mental health, trauma, or substance use challenges to support others facing similar struggles, offering empathy, understanding, and guidance in a non-judgmental manner.

What Does a Peer Advocate Do?

Provide emotional support: They offer to listen actively and create a safe space for others to share their feelings and concerns judgment-free. They communicate through shared experiences, which dissipates feelings of isolation.

Guide individuals to resources: They help connect colleagues with mental health resources, treatment options, or support groups, letting them know when they will be following up. This fosters a sense of togetherness and strength.

Promote open dialogue: They work to break down the stigmas surrounding mental health by initiating conversations about mental well-being and encouraging others to do the same.

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) in the Construction Industry

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a training program designed to equip individuals on the ground and in leadership with the skills to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health challenges.

Benefits of MHFA in Construction:

Early intervention: By recognizing the signs of mental distress, colleagues can intervene before issues escalate. This early recognition is indicative of the observation that occurs from those trained.

Increased awareness: MHFA helps reduce stigma by educating workers about mental health, making it a more acceptable topic of conversation. The more common the conversations regarding mental health become, the more unity can occur organically.

Improved support networks: Workers become more equipped to support each other. Which, over time, turns into a want and desire to support each other, therefore creating a strong sense of community.

Psychological First Aid (PFA) and Its Benefits for the Construction Industry

Psychological First Aid (PFA) is another essential tool that offers immediate compassionate support to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis or stress response. PFA is based on the principles of providing safety, calmness, and a sense of empowerment to those in distress.

Benefits of PFA in Construction:

Crisis support: PFA helps workers respond quickly and effectively to stressful events or traumatic incidents that may occur. This is essential when working in an industry like construction, where the likelihood of something severe happening is a bit higher than other industries.

Reduces the impact of trauma: By offering immediate support, PFA can help mitigate the long-term effects of trauma and stress. This helps create a strong bond among the workers.

Promotes resilience: Workers trained in PFA are better equipped to manage their own stress and provide self-care, enabling them to support colleagues and foster a culture of strength and sturdiness within an industry known for these qualities.

VitalCog Suicide Prevention

The VitalCog Suicide Prevention is specifically designed for the construction industry to address the high rates of suicide among workers. This training teaches participants how to identify warning signs of suicide, engage in real, unfiltered conversations about one's mental health, and connect individuals to appropriate resources.

Tailored approach: The program is tailored to the construction industry, making it relatable and applicable to workers' experiences. Builds confidence: Workers gain the confidence to approach someone who may be struggling and engage in a real conversation concerning their mental well-being at that time. This approach can make a life-saving difference when done with candor.

Fosters a culture of care: By implementing VitalCog training, construction companies demonstrate a commitment to their employees' well-being, encouraging open discussions about mental health.

Creating Space for Dialogue: The Power of Combining These Skills

The construction industry is known for its demanding work environment, but mental health struggles should not be part of the job. By implementing training programs like MHFA, PFA, and VitalCog, and encouraging Peer Advocacy, we can create a culture within the lean construction industry that supports mental health and well-being. When workers feel safe to share their struggles, we make the construction site not just a place to build but a place to thrive.

Together, we can break the silence, providing support that will ultimately save lives. The fight against mental health challenges begins with understanding, compassion, and the willingness to talk.

References

[1] Sussell, A. et al. (2023) 'Suicide Rates by industry and occupation — National Vital Statistics System, United States, 2021,' MMWR Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 72(50), pp. 1346–1350. https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7250a2.

[2] Bush, D.M. and Lipari, R.N. (2015) Substance use, and substance use disorder by industry. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK343542/#.