The construction industry may be best known for its physical demands, but mental health and well-being are just as important. Unfortunately, the suicide rate of male construction employees is over three times higher than the overall national rate, according to 2021 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Although there are many factors that influence mental health, employees can help each other a great deal through how they treat each other daily and respond during a crisis.
Create a supportive culture
Promoting mental health does not mean diagnosing co-workers or asking intrusive questions. Instead, it’s important to consider how your words affect others and how you can be supportive to others if you have the capacity to do so.
- Refrain from using stereotypes and harmful language toward others and encourage co-workers to do the same.
- Check on co-workers by asking them how they’re doing or feeling.
- If a co-worker wants to talk, give them your full attention and avoid judging or criticizing them.
Look for warning signs
It’s possible that talking about something that was bothering them might be the only support a co-worker needs from you. However, they might need more assistance if certain signs are present. Symptoms of mental health issues vary, but can include:
- Significant changes in behavior, appetite, sleeping habits, interests or social habits
- Fatigue, withdrawal or unexplained pain
- Feelings of worry, sadness or guilt
- Excessive use of substances like alcohol or drugs
Recommend options for more assistance
If a co-worker opens up about mental health concerns or issues that seem related to stress, depression or anxiety, it could be helpful to remind them of their options to seek help.
- Learn about workplace benefits, such as an employee assistance program (EAP).
- Recommend care from a health care professional or community health services provider.
- Encourage your co-worker to talk to their supervisor or human resources contact about necessary accommodations.
- If there are concerns for your co-worker’s immediate well-being and safety, stay with them and seek emergency assistance.
Promoting mental health on the job site involves caring for yourself just as much as it does others. If you or any of your co-workers are experiencing a mental health-related crisis, call or text 988 or start a virtual chat at 988lifeline.org.
