Yesterday, our teams paused work for a safety stand-down to recognize Construction Suicide Prevention Week. We did what construction people do best: we showed up for one another; we listened, learned, and reminded each other that help is always within reach. This week is observed across the industry, including here in Michigan, through MIOSHA and many trade partners, all focused on raising awareness and connecting workers to support.
Why This Week Matters
The data are clear and urgent. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) most recent analysis of working-age suicide by industry shows construction among the highest-risk sectors. In 2021, the suicide rate for men in construction was 56.0 per 100,000, which is well above the overall male workforce rate of 32.0. Construction and extraction occupations also top the list among all major occupation groups. Workplaces, especially job sites, are powerful settings for prevention.
Construction Suicide Prevention Week exists to turn that reality into action. Each September, the initiative provides job-ready tools such as toolbox talks, videos, and step-by-step guidance to help crews start conversations and share lifesaving resources. This year’s theme, 'Build Community,' asks each of us to check in, listen without judgment, and make connection a part of daily safety.
What We Heard During Our Stand-Down
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It’s okay to not be okay. We normalize talking about stress, injury recovery, substance use, and financial or family strain because silence isolates.
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Asking directly can save a life. “How are you really doing?” opens doors. Listening without trying to fix everything keeps them open.
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Know the resources. Everyone on a crew should know where to turn for immediate help and ongoing support.
How We'll Keep the Momentum
We’re committed to making mental health part of how we plan, staff, and execute work, not just this week, but all year:
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Keep talking on the job. We’ll continue integrating mental-health check-ins and resource reminders into safety meetings and pre-task planning.
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Equip leaders and peers. We’ll encourage gatekeeper skills (recognize, ask, connect) so supervisors and teammates feel confident having tough conversations.
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Post resources where people see them. Break areas, trailers, and digital channels will highlight the 988 Lifeline and local supports.
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Partner across our industry. We’ll align with Construction Suicide Prevention Week and organizations advancing evidence-based practices for our workforce.
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Measure and improve. We’ll track participation in stand-downs and trainings and look for ways to strengthen our culture of care.
If You or Someone You Know Needs Help
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Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org for 24/7, free, confidential support. Share it with your peers, families, and friends.
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Construction-specific tools: Download conversation guides, toolbox talks, and posters from Construction Suicide Prevention Week.
This week underscores a truth at the core of our purpose: we exist to create the standards that leave a legacy of doing what can’t be done. Building a job where everyone goes home safe includes psychological safety. The more we talk, notice, and connect, the stronger and safer our industry becomes.
