Construction has one of the highest rates of death by suicide of all industries in the United States, about four times higher than the general population. MCAA is proud to tackle Mental Health Awareness & Suicide Prevention head on with a series of NEW resources developed in partnership with the United Association (UA).
- Mental Health Awareness & Suicide Prevention Video – Our newest safety and health video highlights the success story of an industry veteran, with appearances from MCAA’s president Robert Beck, the UA’s Jen Massey, industry expert Dr. Sally Spencer Thomas, and MCAA member Ricky Reams. The video is available in both English and Spanish to MCAA members and the general public.
- Joint Statement from MCAA & UA – UA General President Mark McManus and MCAA President Robert Beck highlight the importance of mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
- 988 Chips & Hard Hat Stickers – The MCAA and the UA have partnered to create UA/MCAA branded chips and hard hat stickers highlighting the 988 National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. See 20 Years of Safety Excellence – September 2023: Mental Health Awareness for ordering information.
- Mental Health Toolbox Talks – This series of 38 toolbox talks is easy to reference, quick to use, and a great way to start the conversation on mental health awareness and suicide prevention in construction at your company. The talks are available in both English and Spanish.
Studies show that suicide is killing workers in the construction industry at five times the rate of work-related injuries like falls and struck-by incidents. And it’s killing them in all parts of the industry – including upper management. Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to why this is happening nor is there an easy fix, but in many cases deaths from suicide CAN be prevented when we push mental health stigma aside and help one another. The MCAA & Alliance Partners Suicide Prevention Webinar explored the topic. This is one recording you won’t want to miss – you could help save a life!
MCAA consistently offers mental health education and training as part of its Safety & Health Conference. Mark your calendar for the 2025 Safety & Health Conference, January 14 – January 16, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
This problem is not going away any time soon, and we cannot solve it alone. MCAA is committed to ongoing, collaborative efforts that shine a light on the issue. We are committed to providing resources to combat it. Stay tuned for future developments.
Visit mcaa.org and search “mental health” to see all MCAA’s mental health awareness and suicide prevention resources.
