Check in On Someone During Construction Suicide Prevention Week

Join NAHB in recognizing Construction Suicide Prevention Week (CSPW), Sept. 14-18. This annual campaign aims to spread mental health awareness for workers in the construction industry.

Construction workers are five times more likely to die by suicide than from a jobsite injury, with as many as 50% of all construction workers experiencing a diagnosable mental health problem.

This year, we are asking members to check in on someone in their lives who might need to talk, especially coworkers on jobsites. A simple, “How are you doing?” can often go a long way. It lets people know someone cares and gives them the opportunity to talk about any struggles. Be prepared to listen and offer help if needed.

And if someone approaches you and asks how you’re doing, be honest. Simply voicing the problem can often help alleviate mental pressure. Everyone in the construction industry needs to become more comfortable talking about mental health issues.

The HBA of Greater Kansas City produced this short and impactful video that can be used on social media to reinforce the “Check In” message during the week:

NAHB and its partners — including SAFE Project, the Job-Site Safety Institute (JSI), MindWise Innovations, and others — have been working to address the stigma around talking about mental health issues in the construction industry. The partnership has created resources available to train workers on mental health concerns and associated risk factors, including:

• NAHB-JSI video toolbox talks on Mental Health and Substance Misuse
• Storytelling videos on personal experiences
• How to Help in a Crisis Toolbox Talk

More information can be found on the NAHB website in the Member Mental Health and Wellbeing section.

Additionally, as a member of the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention, NAHB encourages members to STAND up for suicide prevention and to take the No Shame Pledge.

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please dial 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.