It's Okay to Not Be Okay – Removing the Stigma of Mental Health & Increasing Suicide Awareness Prevention

Talking to a coworker, friend, or loved one about suicide can be a difficult situation, but with a little insight to some reasons, techniques, and resources, we — as fellow employees — can help. Every year, the construction industry has one of the highest suicide rates in the country. According to a September 2024–July 2025 study of the mental health of construction workers funded by the Lean Construction Institute (LCI), construction workers represent 7.4% of the U.S. workforce, but accounted for 17.4% of deaths by suicide. Additionally, 32–42% union and non-union members reported that their job is more stressful than they imagined.  

Why are the rates higher in construction?

Given the extreme physical nature of construction, with employees often dealing with chronic pain from years of heavy labor or a prior injury, substance use has become more prevalent, leading to an increase in mental illness. Combine that with the second-highest prevalence of alcohol dependency among all occupations, and the picture becomes clearer. As a company and an industry committed to construction safety, we must learn the warning signs and be comfortable having these difficult conversations with our fellow workers. Effective construction worker suicide prevention depends on awareness and timely support integrated with construction safety culture. 

Recognizing the warning signs

Common signs a construction worker may be considering suicide include:

• Talking about wanting to kill themselves or die

• Mentioning that they feel hopeless, trapped, or have no reason to live

• Expressing that they feel like a burden to others

• Isolating themselves or withdrawing from people and activities they love

• Showing signs of extreme mood swings

• Increasing alcohol or drug use

• Behaving recklessly or taking unusual risks

• Sleeping much more or less than normal

• Calling or visiting to say goodbye, giving away possessions, or settling affairs 

What should you do if you think someone is at risk of suicide?

Having a conversation with someone that is contemplating suicide is never easy, but if we are prepared and know some effective strategies, it can make a difference. Examples of strategies include:

• Use active listening to build trust and empathy

• Minimize distractions and give them your complete attention

• Be cognizant of your nonverbal communication – i.e., maintain eye contact and nod

• Ask directly but calmly if they are thinking about suicide, and take any "yes" seriously

• Do not promise secrecy; connect them to help and alert a supervisor or safety leader when appropriate 

An important thing to remember is to refrain from trying to "fix" or "solve" their mental health challenges. Instead, try to understand and sympathize, which can help to motivate them to find relief from within. 

Most importantly, encourage them to seek treatment. You can help by providing suicide prevention resources or connecting them with crisis services. 

The impact of Lean practices on mental health in construction

Lean construction methods can influence the course of mental health in construction. In fact, based on the September 2024–July 2025 survey funded by LCI, 100% of construction workers strongly agree that they feel connected to their work group or unit if they meet to discuss issues related to work and social aspects. Additionally, among workers who reported the lowest stress levels, 100% said their team goals were clear. 

Through implementing Lean construction practices such as setting clear goals, encouraging daily huddles, and fostering team collaboration, we're actively working to support our workers by creating healthier, more supportive work environments. 

Suicide prevention resources

There is no shortage of available resources for friends, family, and coworkers. The hardest part of getting help is not finding the resources — it is making the decision to do so. With increased awareness and promoting the fact that it is okay to not be okay, we can help make a difference in someone's life.  

• Call, text, or chat 988 for the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7)

• Talk to your family doctor, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), or a licensed mental health professional

• Find sector-specific resources at ConstructionSuicidePrevention.com

• Use the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's free and confidential resources to help you figure out the best path toward overcoming your mental health challenges.