Mental Health Awareness Month

Over the past several years, there has been a significant shift in awareness and acknowledgment of the importance of mental health in the workplace. In these challenging times, it's crucial to remember that mental health is just as important as physical health. 

For this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month, we would like to focus on the mental health crisis within the construction industry. Did you know that 83% of construction workers have experienced a mental health issue? Or that the construction industry has the highest suicide rate of all industries, with 53.2 suicides per 100,000 workers. 

The main contributing factor to this crisis is that 89% of construction workers are men. Men are generally less likely to receive appropriate mental health treatment, putting them at a higher risk for mental health issues.

Many construction workers, both men and women, are often faced with factors that are likely to contribute to mental health issues. Those factors include:

• Male-dominated industry, with men experiencing the highest suicide rates

• Stigma associated with mental health issues and seeking help

• Chronic pain

• High-stress and dead-line driven work

• End of season layoffs

• Separation from family when working away from home

Mental Health Matters

Everyone experiences stress, anxiety, and emotional struggles at some point. It's important to acknowledge these feelings and seek help when needed. Remember, it's okay not to be okay.

Suicide Prevention

Suicide is one of the top 10 causes of death in Canada.  It has lasting, harmful effects on individuals, families, and communities. Suicide is a tragic outcome of mental health struggles. It's essential to recognize the signs and reach out to those who may be in need. If you or someone you know is struggling, please don't hesitate to seek help. This month we will be distributing stickers and posters to promote the 9-8-8 suicide crisis helpline.

Open Communication

We encourage open dialogue about mental health. If you're comfortable, share your experiences and support your colleagues. Together, we can create a supportive and understanding workplace environment.

Resources Available

We want to remind you of the resources available to support your mental health:

• Employee Family Assistance Program (EFAP): Our EFAP provides confidential mental health support, counselling services, and resources to help manage stress, anxiety, and other personal issues. *If you are a member of a union, please contact your local union representative for information on programs available for assistance.

• ClaimSecure: We encourage you to utilize the mental health coverage provided as needed. This is part of your Health benefits and is there to ensure you can take time off to focus on your mental well-being.

• Online Resources: We have a variety of online resources available which you can find at the end of the article.

Remember, you’re not alone. We are here to support you. Let’s look out for one another and make mental health a priority.

Resources:

• Employee Family Assistance (EFAP) - 1-877-630-6701 / online / TELUS Health One app: Offers free and confidential support and guidance to employees and their families facing challenges.
  

• Suicide Crisis Helpline - 9-8-8: If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8 for 24/7 support. This helpline offers support that is bilingual, trauma-informed, and culturally appropriate.
  

• Services Offered by National Mental Health Organizations:

  • Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA): Provides information about mental health resources, programs, and mental illness. Helps you find support for yourself or others. Click here to visit website.

  • Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH): Offers free online courses for youth, students, adults, and families. Provides Mental Health 101 tutorials on various topics related to mental health and addictions. Also has resources for understanding and moving through grief. Click here to visit website.

  • Kids Help Phone - 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868. 
    

• For First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples:

  • Hope for Wellness Help Line - 1-855-242-3310 / online chat: Available 24/7 for emotional support, crisis intervention, or referrals to community-based services. Support is available in English, French, Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut. 

  • National Indian Residential School Crisis Line - 1-866-925-4419: Available 24/7 for former Indian Residential School students and their families. 

  • Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Crisis Line - 1-844-413-6649: Available 24/7 for individuals impacted by this issue.
    

• Additional Resources:

  • Canadian Coalition for Seniors’ Mental Health: Provides information on suicide risk and prevention for seniors. Click here to visit website.

  • Culture for Life: Offers mental health and wellness resources for Canadian Armed Forces members and families. Click here to visit website.

  • Association québécoise de prévention du suicide (available in French only). Click here to visit website.

  • Centre de prévention du suicide de Québec (available in French only). Click here to visit website.