A Call to Action: Suicide Prevention in Construction
A Note on Prevention: September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month –
A month that serves as a powerful reminder that there are steps, we all must take in looking out for loved ones,
people in our community, and those who have been impacted by this leading cause of
death. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and
Crisis Lifeline or use the chat-line at 988lifeline.org. Veterans and service members can
press 1 after calling 988 for the Veterans Crisis Line. Support is free, confidential, and
available 24/7.
Why are Construction and Related Activities at Risk?
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in 2021(published in 2023) demonstrated that
construction had the highest suicide rate citing approximately 65 males per 100,000 had
tragically taken their own lives. Why is the rate so high? Factors such as construction
being physically demanding work, long hours, injuries, chronic pain, and substance
abuse coupled by a grit culture that can discourage those from seeking help may all
contribute.
How Can You Be Part of the Prevention Solution?
Take proactive measures to reduce the suicide rate amongst construction workers such
as:
Make help immediate and visible – Post 988 Crisis text lifeline on job boards,
include in orientation packets, and develop a hard hat sticker with “Text Hello to
741741”
Recognize the Warning Signs – Is the person talking about death, being a
burden, or hopelessness; are they suddenly withdrawing or staying isolated; are
they giving away possessions, saying good-bye, or abusing substances?
Ask Directly, Listen Actively – Calmy ask the person, “are you thinking
about suicide?” Asking does not plant the idea, but it shows care. Listen without
judgement.
Don’t Leave the Person Alone – If the risk is immediate, stay with them, until
help arrives. Reduce access to lethal means such as firearms, medications, and
high-risk equipment.
Call for Help – Call the national crisis hotline at 988. If you are immediate
danger, call 911.
Connect them to Professionals – Encourage the person to use their
Employee Assistance Program provided by employers or seek professional assistance.
