Among a young population already prone to fragility, extra job stress can be enough to push an individual over the edge. In construction, where there is a strong emphasis on getting the job done quickly and on maintaining a tough attitude, the situation can become explosive.
Construction workers certainly have serious job-related stress. Whether it’s the lack of job security and the ever-changing schedules, an overabundance of high-risk activities or the health conditions associated with heavy labor, construction workers are at risk. It’s time for construction organizations to take proactive steps to support their employees.
The average construction employer isn’t any more prepared to talk about suicide and mental health than the workers are. Generally, organizations have a more reactive response to employee suicide – they may bring in counselors to help coworkers with their grief in the immediate aftermath – but little is done in terms of prevention.
The average construction employer isn’t any more prepared to talk about suicide and mental health than the workers are.
Educating employees about what to look for can help, including:
- Risk factors
- A family history of suicide or a history of trauma
- Suffering from a serious physical illness
- Having attempted suicide
- Financial or relationship pressures
- Lack of support networks
- Cultural stigma over mental health
- Indicators of mental stress
- Weight and appetite changes
- Chronic headaches
- A tight chest
- Anxiety and indecision
- Loss of motivation
- Increased sensitivity
- Low self-esteem
- Increased smoking and drinking
- Withdrawal or aggression
- Reckless behaviors
- Difficulty concentrating
CLICK HERE to read the entire article by John Wallen, Vice President and Wisconsin Construction Practice Leader HUB International, a member of Multiple AGC Chapters
Related Articles:
- Did You Know Construction Has Second Highest Suicide Rate?
- Construction Suicide Prevention Safety Stand-Down Week, Sept. 6-10
- “Ghosting” A Growing Concern For Off-Site Construction Employers And Employees
Gary Fleisher is Editor in Chief of Modular Home Source and Offsite Builder magazine. Email at [email protected]
