The construction industry is known for its demanding work environment, including long hours, physically challenging tasks, and tight deadlines. While safety standards and project deadlines often take center stage, mental health is a critical issue that deserves some attention.
Workers in construction face numerous stressors that impact their mental well-being. Consequently, many workers may turn to self-medication or conceal their struggles. According to a 2020 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report, the construction industry has the second-highest suicide rate among U.S. industries, with men in this field experiencing a suicide rate 75% higher than the general population. Addressing these issues and promoting mental health support is critical.
September 8-14th is Suicide Awareness Week, a time dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and preventing suicide. This week serves as an important reminder to acknowledge and address mental health challenges, particularly in high-stress fields like roofing.
By fostering open discussions about mental health and reducing stigma, we can work toward a future where our industry not only builds structures but also supports a resilient and healthy community for all its members.
We are grateful to NRCA for building awareness about mental health in the roofing industry.
For more information and resources check out NRCA's mental health webpage.
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