Search Here

The suicide rate among construction workers is alarmingly high compared to other occupations, according to a recently published study.

About Suicide

Suicide is one of the major public health concerns impacting people across various professional fields. It is a complex phenomenon with numerous contributing factors, including mental health struggles, substance abuse, and stressful working conditions. Addressing suicide requires a multifaceted approach involving awareness, prevention, and intervention strategies.

Suicide Rates Among Construction Workers

Construction workers face a significantly higher risk of suicide than the general population. According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 6,000 construction workers died by suicide in 2022. Male construction workers have a suicide rate of nearly 50 per 100,000, while female workers have a rate of approximately 25 per 100,000. These rates are the highest among all occupational groups.

The Building Trade Employers' Association (BTEA) of New York highlighted these troubling statistics at their SAFEBUILD conference. The association emphasized that construction workers are six times more likely to die by suicide than from on-the-job injuries. This stark contrast underscores the urgent need for industry reforms to address mental health issues among workers.

Mandatory Mental Wellness

Elizabeth Crowley, former Queens City Councilwoman and current head of BTEA of New York, is advocating for significant changes to protect construction workers. She stressed the importance of making mental wellness a mandatory part of safety training programs and ensuring naloxone is available on large construction sites to treat overdoses. Crowley pointed out that the construction industry, which is predominantly male, has traditionally viewed mental health struggles as a sign of weakness. This cultural attitude often leads workers to hide their internal struggles, exacerbating their mental health issues.

Toxic Environments

The combination of long working hours, harsh conditions, strict deadlines, and job insecurity can create a toxic environment for construction workers. Implementing industry reforms and promoting mental wellness initiatives are crucial steps in reducing the high suicide rates among construction workers. Addressing these issues can help create a safer and healthier work environment for those in the construction industry.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 or go to 988lifeline.org.