What actions can be taken to reduce the number of suicides in the U.S. construction industry?

By DR. JOHN GAAL

The construction industry has one of the highest suicide rates in the United States. In 2019, there were 2,809 suicides among construction workers, which is more than the number of construction workers who died in work-related accidents. There are a number of factors that contribute to the high suicide rate in the construction industry, including:

• Stress: Construction work is physically and mentally demanding. Workers are often under pressure to meet deadlines, and they may have to work long hours in dangerous conditions.
• Isolation: Construction workers are often isolated from their families and friends. They may work long hours away from home, and they may not have access to mental health resources.
• Substance abuse: Substance abuse is a major risk factor for suicide. Construction workers are more likely to use alcohol and drugs than workers in other industries.
• Mental health stigma: There is a stigma associated with mental health problems in the construction industry. Workers may be afraid to seek help for mental health problems because they fear being labeled as weak or unfit for work.

WHAT CAN BE DONE
There are a number of things that can be done to reduce the number of suicides in the construction industry. These include:

• Raising awareness about suicide: Employers, unions, and other organizations can raise awareness about suicide by talking about it openly and honestly. They can also provide resources and support to workers who are struggling with suicidal thoughts.
• Promoting mental health: Employers can create a culture of mental health awareness by providing access to mental health resources and by encouraging workers to talk about their mental health.
• Addressing stress: Employers can help to reduce stress in the workplace by providing flexible work schedules, offering stress management training, and creating a safe and supportive work environment.
• Breaking down the stigma: Employers, unions, and other organizations can help to break down the stigma associated with mental health by talking about it openly and honestly. They can also provide resources and support to workers who are struggling with mental health problems.

By taking these steps, we can help to reduce the number of suicides in the construction industry and save lives.

(Dr. John Gaal is director of the Missouri AFL-CIO’s Missouri Works Initiative’s Worker Wellness Program.)