Mental health conversations are more prevalent in business today and it is a topic that needs the full attention of business leaders.
Fifty million Americans currently have a mental illness, 15% of Americans had a substance use disorder in the past year and nearly 5% reported serious thoughts of suicide (Mental Health America). Unfortunately, the construction industry has one of the highest suicide rates, (CDC). These numbers leave no question that workplace safety extends beyond physical safety measures to mental well-being.
There continues to be a stigma around talking about mental health in the construction industry, but the landscape is changing thanks to the attention brought to it during the pandemic. Savvy business leaders take care of their people. The tips below can help actively support the mental well-being of employees.
[Related Content: Why is the Industry’s Suicide Rate So High?]
The long, strenuous hours employees put in on a job can take its toll. However, many people do not want to talk about the stress it has on their mental health because they may feel it portrays them as weak.
Changing long-held mental health perceptions begins with up-front and honest everyday conversations. Actively listening to employees and sharing personal experiences creates an environment for them to open up. Employees look to leadership, and they set the tone by openly discussing mental health topics, encouraging employees to feel more comfortable sharing their own experiences. Leaders play a crucial role in breaking down the barriers surrounding mental health issues, encouraging open conversations in the workplace and embracing support systems.
At Skanska in Houston and North Texas, we provide mental health first aid courses. Those who volunteer to become a mental health first aider go through training about how to talk with colleagues who may need a listening ear and are given a green sticker to wear on their hard hat. The sticker is the “green light” telling employees they are trained to discuss mental health issues and life’s challenges. The training prepares first aiders to direct colleagues to any needed resources for more in-depth assistance. A simple program like this sends the message that it is okay for all of us to talk about our mental health in the workplace.
