By Christian Hicks
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February 12, 2025
Construction is tough. It’s physically demanding, high-pressure, and often dangerous. But while hard hats and steel-toed boots protect workers from physical hazards, there’s little protection against mental health struggles. The numbers don’t lie: The construction industry has the highest suicide rate of any profession. The CDC reports that construction workers are four times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. Workplace stress is rampant. A 2023 study by the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention (CIASP) found that 83% of construction workers experience stress that affects their work and well-being. Substance abuse is a crisis. According to the National Safety Council , 15% of construction workers struggle with substance use disorders, double the national average. So why is mental health still a taboo topic on most job sites? Breaking the Stigma There’s an old-school mentality in construction that says: “Tough it out. Suck it up. Get back to work.” But this culture is costing lives. Many workers fear that admitting mental health struggles will make them look weak or jeopardize their jobs. Steps Construction Companies Can Take Make Mental Health a Leadership Priority Mental health initiatives can’t just be an afterthought. When leadership openly discusses well-being, employees feel safer seeking help. Provide Anonymous Resources Many workers don’t want to talk about their struggles face-to-face. Offering confidential Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) can provide critical support without fear of judgment. Train Managers to Spot Warning Signs Supervisors should be trained to recognize signs of distress—like withdrawal, mood swings, or increased absenteeism—and know how to offer support. Create Peer Support Networks Some of the most effective mental health programs come from within. Peer-to-peer mentoring, where workers support each other, has been shown to increase engagement and reduce stigma. Rethink Time-Off Policies Many construction workers avoid taking time off for mental health because they fear losing wages. Flexible leave policies and wellness days can make a difference. Real-World Success Stories Some companies are leading the charge in tackling mental health in construction: Turner Construction launched a company-wide initiative to make mental health part of safety meetings. Skanska implemented a 24/7 mental health helpline for employees and their families. Sundt Construction created a "buddy system" to ensure workers always have someone to talk to. Mental health is just as important as physical safety. If you want to build a culture where workers thrive, Targeted HR Consulting can help you integrate mental health resources into your HR strategy. Contact us today to start making mental well-being a priority in your company.