Safety Isn’t Just Physical: Confronting the Suicide Crisis in Construction
Each May, Mental Health Awareness Month gives us a chance to pause and reflect on the well-being of our workforce. In the construction industry, this reflection is urgent: construction workers are six times more likely to die by suicide than from workplace-related accidents.
These are not just statistics. They are our coworkers, crew leaders, and friends. While we invest heavily in fall protection, PPE, and site safety protocols, many in our industry are silently battling mental health challenges that go unnoticed and untreated.
Why the Risk Is Higher in Construction
The construction industry faces unique stressors:
- Long hours and physically demanding work
- Job insecurity due to seasonal or project-based employment
- Tough-guy culture that discourages emotional vulnerability
- High rates of substance use
- Limited access to mental health resources on job sites
These conditions create a perfect storm for anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.
Beyond the jobsite, many construction workers may also face personal challenges such as financial pressure, lack of affordable healthcare, and relationship stress. The stigma surrounding mental health in traditionally male-dominated professions only deepens the isolation. As a result, too many suffer in silence, believing they must simply “tough it out.”
A Call to Action for Leaders
As safety professionals and industry leaders, it’s our responsibility to expand the definition of safety to include mental and emotional well-being. Here’s how you can take action this Mental Health Awareness Month:
- Normalize Conversations About Mental Health
Create a culture where it’s okay to talk about stress, depression, and anxiety. Share stories, lead by example, and listen without judgment. Make mental health part of the daily safety dialogue. - Provide Free Resources and Support
Direct your teams to trusted resources like PreventConstructionSuicide.com, which offers:- Toolbox talks
- Crisis hotline info
- Mental health self-assessments
- Free downloadable posters and training
- Train Your Team to Recognize Warning Signs
Equip supervisors and team leads with training to identify red flags such as withdrawal, erratic behavior, or increased substance use. Early intervention saves lives. Early intervention saves lives. Incorporate mental health indicators into regular check-ins and safety audits. - Prioritize Access to Help
Make sure your crew knows how to reach support—whether it’s HR, an Employee Assistance Program, or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Consider placing mental health signage and QR codes in break rooms and common areas.
Start Now. Save Lives.
Preventing suicide in construction requires more than awareness. It demands action, compassion, and leadership. This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s remind ourselves: protecting our people means caring for the whole person.
Access Free Tools to Support Your Crew
Visit PreventConstructionSuicide.com for ready-to-use resources that can make a real difference on your jobsite. Use these tools to start meaningful conversations, educate your teams, and build a culture where mental health is treated with the urgency it deserves.
Need Immediate Support?
Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential help 24/7.
Let’s build a safer industry—together.
How STC Safety & Risk Management Can Help
At STC, we believe true workplace safety includes mental wellness. Our team offers tailored training, safety culture assessments, and resources to help you implement comprehensive mental health strategies on your jobsite. Contact us today to learn how we can support your crew.
