This week (September 4th-8th) is dedicated to raising awareness about the higher-than-average number of suicides in the construction industry, and to providing resources to help prevent those deaths. Every year in September the construction industry raises awareness about unique challenges workers face in construction that lead to suicide and what we can do to prevent it. Together, we can save lives!
There is a library of resources — from videos to websites to toolbox talks and much more: https://constructionsuicideprevention.com/resources/
The construction industry has the second highest rate of suicide in the United States at 53.3 per 100,000 workers according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). In the U.S. there are approximately 123 suicides per day that breaks down to one death every 12 minutes. (SafeBuild Alliance)
It will take all of us to prevent suicide. Luckily, there are many resources to help employers effectively support mental wellness among their workers or use for content to hold a stand-down or other event with your employees. If you or someone you know is struggling with the thoughts of suicide; call, text, or chat 988 (Suicide & Crisis Helpline). It’s available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week as a free emotional resource.
