Why are we so arrogant in thinking that we had it right?
In the construction industry, a staggering five times more individuals die from suicide than from job-related accidents. Vince Hafeli, an international speaker and mental health advocate, nearly became one of those statistics. Recently, he shared his powerful story with HORNE team members and construction leaders, aiming to transform the culture surrounding mental health in the workplace. As the backbone of America’s infrastructure, the construction industry faces a hidden crisis that demands urgent attention—making suicide prevention a core safety priority.
The Alarming Statistics Behind Construction and Suicide
According to 2021 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the numbers are sobering:
| Construction-related fatalities | 951 (approximately 2 to 3 per day) |
|---|---|
| Construction and mining/extraction deaths by suicide | 4,813 (around 10 to 15 per day) |
Even more alarming, these suicide figures may be underreported by as much as 50%. These aren’t just numbers—they represent lives lost, families shattered, and a workforce in crisis.
The Ripple Effect: How Mental Health Impacts Safety and Productivity
Mental well-being is just as crucial as physical safety on the job site. Workers struggling with mental health issues may ignore safety measures, putting themselves and others at risk. Depression, anxiety, and substance abuse can cloud judgment and diminish a person’s ability to work safely. This creates a ripple effect on multiple fronts:
Profit
Decreased productivity and increased absenteeism.
Healthcare Cost
Rising medical expenses and long-term disability claims.
Production
Diminished work quality and efficiency.
Recruitment and Retention
A toxic workplace drives away talent.
Morale and Safety
Mental health issues erode team cohesion and increase accidents.
Statistics paint a clear picture of this crisis:
- In 2022, 49,476 Americans died by suicide—up 2.6% from the previous year.
- Nationally, we lose one American to suicide every 11 minutes.
- Statistically, every two hours, a construction worker dies by suicide.
These figures highlight the urgency for suicide prevention initiatives in construction. Ignoring this issue risks not only human lives but also the health and safety of entire projects.
As the conversation over the importance of mental health in the construction industry begins to grow, it’s crucial to also acknowledge the generational shift in the conversation around mental wellness. Recent data shows that Gen Z is experiencing the highest suicide rates of any generation, highlighting a growing crisis among younger workers. Along with this, the expectations for employers to offer supportive mental health resources have never been higher. Today’s workforce, especially younger employees, seeks environments where mental well-being is prioritized, signaling the need for industries, including construction, to step up with comprehensive mental health support and proactive intervention measures.
Taking Action: Strategies for Addressing Mental Health in Construction
So, how do we address mental health in the construction industry, where toughness and self-reliance are cultural norms? Here’s where we start:
Keep it Simple
Communication around mental health needs to be straightforward. Use clear language to discuss the importance of mental well-being, warning signs, and how to access support.
Leadership Acknowledges the Issue
Suicide prevention starts at the top. When leaders openly address mental health, it reduces stigma and encourages workers to seek help. Leadership must recognize that mental well-being is as important as physical safety and act accordingly.
Build a Network Team
Create a support network that includes HR professionals, union representatives, and mental health advocates. This team ensures that workers have access to a broad spectrum of resources, from peer support to professional counseling.
Utilize Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
Learn what mental health resources are already available in your Employee Assistance Program. Many companies underutilize their EAPs, leaving workers without vital resources that could prevent crises.
Expand EAP Offerings if Needed
If your current EAP doesn’t provide adequate mental health support, consider expanding its scope. Offering services such as mental health screenings, addiction counseling, and wellness programs can help catch issues before they escalate.
Mental health challenges don’t always equate to mental illness, but they can lead to devastating consequences if ignored. Warning signs may include changes in behavior, mood swings, or withdrawal from colleagues. If you notice someone exhibiting these signs, don’t hesitate to ask if they’re okay. A simple conversation can save a life.
It’s time to stop viewing mental health as a personal issue and start treating it as a vital component of workplace safety. In an industry where lives depend on sharp focus and sound judgment, addressing mental health is not optional—it’s essential.
By acknowledging the mental health crisis and implementing supportive measures, we can not only save lives but also foster a safer, more productive work environment in the construction industry. Let’s work together to turn the tide on this urgent issue.
Join us in advocating for mental health resources in the construction industry. Share this post, engage in conversations about mental wellness, and support initiatives that prioritize the well-being of our workforce.
