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Suicide in the Construction Industry: A Silent Crisis

Joselin Martin

The following article explains how suicide has become a serious issue in the construction industry, but not one that is frequently discussed.  Construction organizations like the Construction Financial Management Association and the American Subcontractors Association are leading the industry in bringing the conversations to leaders with the power to encourage the open discussion of mental health in the industry.  ASA of Baltimore has recently completed a 3-part series of conversations on the issue, and ASA’s 2023 SUBExcel conference will be highlighting the issue as well.

The construction industry is a vital part of our economy, responsible for building the infrastructure and structures that support our daily lives. However, it is also an industry plagued by a silent crisis: suicide. Suicide rates in the construction industry are alarmingly high. In 2020, the CDC found that men working in construction have one of the highest suicide rates compared to other industries. Their suicide rate is about four times higher than the general population.

The reasons behind this crisis are complex and multifaceted. Construction workers face a range of challenges that can contribute to poor mental health, including long working hours, physical strain, job insecurity, and financial pressures. Additionally, the construction industry is traditionally male-dominated, and the stigma around mental health and seeking help can be particularly pronounced among men.

One of the major contributing factors to suicide in the construction industry is isolation. Construction workers often work long hours, away from their families and communities, and may not have access to the support and resources they need to maintain good mental health. Furthermore, the transient nature of the industry can make it difficult for workers to form long-term relationships and establish a sense of community.

Another significant issue is the lack of mental health resources and support within the industry. Many construction workers do not have access to mental health services, and those that do may face significant barriers to accessing care. Additionally, the stigma surrounding mental health can make it difficult for workers to feel comfortable seeking help or disclosing their struggles to employers or colleagues.

Finally, the nature of the work itself can contribute to poor mental health. Construction work is often physically demanding, and workers may face injuries, accidents, or traumatic events on the job. Additionally, the nature of the work can be unpredictable, with projects delayed or canceled, which can cause financial stress and uncertainty.

Addressing the crisis of suicide in the construction industry will require a multi-pronged approach. Employers must prioritize the mental health and well-being of their workers, providing access to mental health resources and creating a supportive work environment. This can include providing mental health training to supervisors and colleagues, offering counseling services or employee assistance programs, and promoting a culture of openness and support around mental health.

Additionally, the industry as a whole must continue working to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage workers to seek help when they need it. This can include providing education and awareness campaigns around mental health, as well as creating safe and supportive spaces for workers to talk about their struggles and experiences.

Finally, governments and policymakers must also play a role in addressing this crisis. This can include providing funding for mental health resources and support services, as well as implementing policies that prioritize worker safety and well-being.

Suicide in the construction industry is a complex and pressing issue that demands our attention and action. By working together, we can create a safer and more supportive industry for all workers.

 

Want to learn more?  Try starting with these resources:

 ·     The Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention (https://preventconstructionsuicide.com) has construction-specific resources to address suicide in the construction industry.  Start by taking the Needs and Integration Checklist and taking the Pledge to Stand Up Against Suicide Prevention

 ·     The Suicide Prevention Helpline (https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/) is a 24/7 resource for local crisis centers nationwide.  1-800-273-TALK (8255)

  ·      988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline  (988 or 988lifeline.org) accesses trained counselors for people having mental-health distress.