Mental health in high-stress industries, particularly construction, is a pressing issue, as highlighted by the alarming statistic from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, which reports that the suicide rate among workers in these sectors is over twice the national average. Recognizing this challenge, Maine employers, supervisors, and mental health professionals recently convened at the Snow Pond Center for the Arts in Sidney to address the urgent need for mental health support.
The Importance of Employer Leadership
Jamie Evans, Safety Director of Health and Wellness at Turner Construction, emphasized that the key to fostering mental well-being lies in proactive leadership from employers. Drawing from his extensive experience in construction, Evans has witnessed firsthand the detrimental effects of high-stress work environments on mental health.
Historically, Evans noted, there has been a cultural stigma surrounding mental health in the industry, with phrases like “man up” discouraging open discussions about emotional struggles. “There’s not a lot of mentoring around healthy coping strategies,” he stated, calling for a cultural shift to prioritize mental health.
Creating a Supportive Environment
With the support of local organizations such as Wellness Workdays, Evans and other industry leaders are working to cultivate a culture where employees feel safe discussing their mental health. Debra Wein, Director of Wellness Workdays, highlighted the importance of open communication and support, saying, “Being able to open the conversation and just offer a sense of support can be really critical.”
Wellness Workdays collaborates with companies like Turner Construction to enhance access to mental health resources, bringing behavioral health professionals directly to work sites. “We’re not here to just say, ‘you can’t work here anymore,’ but instead say, ‘we have these resources available to help you,’” Wein explained. This hands-on approach aims to destigmatize mental health conversations and provide practical support.
Educating Employers on Warning Signs
A significant focus of the summit was educating employers about recognizing warning signs of mental health crises among employees. Shamera Simpson from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention underscored that many individuals suffering from mental health issues do not actively seek help. “Most people who are struggling don’t ask for help,” Simpson stated. “What they often really want is for somebody to ask them how they’re doing.”
Encouraging this proactive approach can create an environment where employees feel seen and supported. Evans and his peers are committed to using their platforms to provide the necessary resources for their employees to maintain their mental well-being.
A Collective Responsibility
By collaborating with organizations like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and Wellness Workdays, industry leaders are working towards making a tangible impact in the lives of their employees. Evans concluded, “We’re not going to maybe change the whole world, but we can impact our corner of the world.” This collective effort aims to foster a healthier work environment in high-stress industries, ultimately improving the quality of life for many workers.
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