It’s a familiar sight: workers huddled together at a job site, helmets and safety vests clearly visible. This image shows a commendable commitment to the physical safety of its workforce, a necessary aspect of any construction company.
Construction workers wear personal protective equipment (PPE) every day, but protecting mental health along with physical health is just as important. Unfortunately, construction workers have among the highest suicide rates by population With staggering rates of mental illness and suicide in construction in regions such as the US, UK and Australia, it is clear that improving working conditions and addressing mental health is critical. Only in the US are men who work in construction four times more likely to die by suicide than the general population.
In an industry where stoicism and reluctance to seek help are common, it is essential that construction leaders actively work to remove the stigma surrounding mental illness and advocate for the psychological and physical well-being of their employees. Efforts like Talk about constructiondefended by to seek i The B1Mare an example of how some organizations are helping to break down the stigma associated with mental health challenges and strengthening the efforts of charities committed to improving mental wellbeing in construction.
Launched in London in June, Get Construction Talking aims to empower all construction workers with the tools to keep an eye on their peers, starting with a conversation. The show is also fundraising to raise $1 million to donate to building-based mental health nonprofits around the world, such as The Lighthouse Charity; Sports construction; Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention; Friends in mind; i Construction partners.
Although the construction industry is one of enormous physical work, including significant physical stress, mental health is increasing in the workplace: modern safety programs approach safety as a holistic issue, mind , body and spirit.
Change starts with a chat
Creating a holistic safety program focused on mental and physical wellness means going above and beyond standard physical security practices. And while combating negative attitudes toward mental illness can seem daunting, mindful leaders have the power to influence positive change in their industry.
Here are three strategies for cultivating a workplace dedicated to safety and wellness.
1. Start the conversation.
Increasing communication and visibility about mental health issues can go a long way in reducing stigma and creating an inclusive environment. For leaders looking to address the issue of mental well-being, talking about it openly is very important. Including recurring mental health training and policies in safety meetings is one way to ensure that mental health is at the forefront of the safety conversation.
2. Check your equipment.
Research indicates that recognizing and talking about mental health can actually improve it. This can be seen through successful efforts such as the Australian program, ARE YOU OK? In a free downloadable toolkit, Talk about construction describes signs to look for in peers who may be struggling with mental health, along with conversation starters. Simple statements can have a big impact:
- I haven’t seen you lately. Everything is OK?
- I know things have been difficult – I’m here if you want to talk.
- It’s been a while, do you want to have a cup of coffee?
3. Create a culture of support.
Sometimes there are no visible signs of the struggle going on inside. However, leaders and team members have the opportunity to create a culture where it is not okay. When it comes to mental health, active listening and encouraging professional help can make a difference in the next actions people take.
Keeping people safe is more than just the right protection and equipment; it is also about the welfare of the workers. As business leaders and companies enact positive changes for employee mental health, the construction industry will become safer and more inclusive. To learn more about how you can help address this crisis and gain access to a free downloadable toolkit, visit www.getconstructiontalking.org.
