Working in construction is inherently dangerous and the danger isn't just confined to the physical environment on the job. Construction pros have the largest percentage of male suicides in the US. Not good. We work in a high risk industry with a bunch of tough and confident people. Long and tough hours can wear people down physically and mentally. Construction leaders can help keep people safe by implementing the STAND Initiative that was launched by the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention (CIASP):
Build SAFE cultures
TRAIN people to identify and help at risk people
Increase AWARENESS of suicide in construction
NORMALIZE discussions about suicide and mental health
DECREASE risks associated with suicide in construction
Our industry isn't known for high levels of emotional intelligence but if we just pay attention to what people say and do, we can help. We can watch what people are saying and what their body language looks like. If something like behavior changes, that can be a warning sign, as well.
For more information and additional resources to help yourself or someone in need, check out this article on ForConstructionPros.com.
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