The US construction sector faces escalating rates of suicide and drug overdose, presenting a substantial threat to worker well-being.
- Overlooked Mental Health:
Despite a demanding work environment and a resilience-focused culture, mental health and wellness are often neglected, contributing to the growing crisis.
Annually, around 1,000 construction workers die on jobsites, and over 5,000 individuals in the industry die by suicide, underscoring the severity of the issue.
To address mental health, the article recommends practical measures for leaders, including fostering a safe culture, providing addiction support, and implementing wellness programs tailored to the unique challenges of the construction sector. Various resources, such as the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention, are highlighted to assist employers in navigating mental health initiatives in construction.
