Hawkins said there’s a stigma around the idea that “we’re construction workers, we don’t have those problems. We walk it off.”
But he said, “That’s not the case. And so that stigma is dying with the old generation and this new generation of 18- to 24-year-old kids… coming into the trade, they’re embracing the mental aspect of it.”
“There’s a lot of trip hazards,” he said. “We have got to take care of each other, like, ‘Hey bro, watch your step,’ or clean up in front of a person before they get to the area. Stuff like that.”
Hawkins noted there has been an increase in programs directly combating suicide in the construction trade, “so in those times of need you know how to navigate those situations, how to help them – sometimes literally how to talk them off the ledge, how to get them to open up. We’re not here to diagnose. We’re just here to support.”
But co-workers shouldn’t bear sole responsibility for one another, LaVetter-McCraren said. Instead, she described workplace support as “the door to conversations” that should lead to professional resources and training.
The CDC has outlined strategies for suicide prevention, including strengthening economic support, investing in community relationships through training and awareness and improving access to treatment and support.
“You have your home family, and then you have your construction family,” Hawkins said. “A lot of us who have spent time in the field formed lifelong friendships and bonds. And I’m not talking about just going out and grabbing some burgers and beers, but you’re at each other’s weddings. You’re at the hospital for your firstborn.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is free and available 24/7. Call or text 988.
McCraren Compliance offers many opportunities in safety training to help circumvent accidents. Please take a moment to visit our calendar of classes to see what we can do to help your safety measures from training to consulting.
Original article published by Cronkite News