Resources for Mental Health, Addiction Recovery and Suicide Prevention
Being connected gives us strength, because it means we are not alone in building a stronger, safer industry, and in creating a safe, supportive environment for our workers. We are responsible for the well-being and safety of everyone on every job site. That means we must be able to see the signs of struggle that can impact safety and productivity, and know when and how to be there for each other. It also means ensuring our workers are equipped with the resources and support they need to work safe every day.
There are many organizations and resources you can leverage as you discuss and address mental health awareness in your organization.
The best role of a construction professional is to destigmatize mental health, and act as a signpost that guides individuals needing support toward appropriate professional help. Here are a few helpful resources for addressing common stressors and how to create environments that support the mental health and overall wellbeing of our workers.
Mental Health Education
Providing education and training is part of the ongoing efforts to combat high suicide rates and improve mental health in construction. Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) offers a training program that teaches how to recognize and respond to signs of suicide and create a supportive work environment where employees feel comfortable addressing mental health concerns. The AGC Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Task Force has also compiled a wealth of tools and resources related to mental health, substance abuse, and suicide prevention.
Are you or someone you know in a mental health emergency?
You Are Not Alone: Where to Go For Help
Crisis Resources
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 2 for Spanish)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 (to connect with a Crisis Counselor)
- Veterans Crisis Line (call, chat or text) 1-800-273-8255, Press 1 or https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
- Crisis Service Canada: 1-833-456-4566
Additional Support Resources
- NAMI Help Line
- Call: 1-800-950-6264
- Text NAMI to 741-741
- NAMI Connection Recovery Support Groups
- NAMI Support Groups (for individuals or family members)
- Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration
Want to Improve Mental Health Awareness and Give Workers Tools to Help Themselves and Others?
Data and Information on Mental Health
Tools for Stress Management and Worker Well-Being:
- Mental Health America Tools 2 Thrive Toolkit
- Addressing the Root of the Stress Problem in Construction
- National Safety Council
- Building Resilience: Helping Workers Handle Stress for the Long Haul
- Five Ways Construction Workers Can Deal with Stress and Anxiety
- Toolbox Talks: https://www.constructionworkingminds.org/toolbox
- SPANISH Resources: https://www.constructionworkingminds.org/spanish-home
Self-Screening Tools
- “Man Therapy” – self-screen for depression, anxiety, substance use and anger: https://mantherapy.org/
- Help Yourself, Help Others Screening: https://www.helpyourselfhelpothers.org/
Suicide Prevention Resources:
- Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention
- Construction Working Minds: Suicide Prevention in the Construction Workplace
- National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- Construction Industry “10 Questions” for industry leaders can be found here
- Construction Industry action steps can be found here