The construction industry has a high rate of suicide, which makes it imperative to prioritize mental health in the workplace. This was the focus of a recent event hosted by Thomas Construction, where resources and support were provided to employees. During the event, Chris Thorn, a health care team leader for Thomas Construction, highlighted the importance of destigmatizing mental health issues and emphasized that conversations about mental health are crucial for creating a positive work environment and ensuring that employees have access to necessary resources.
Simpson thanked Thomas Construction for hosting the event and recognized the challenges faced by those in the construction field. He echoed Thorn’s sentiments, emphasizing the need to normalize discussions around mental health and reduce stigma associated with mental illness and substance use disorders. The promotion of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at the event underscored the importance of providing access to trained crisis counselors for individuals experiencing mental health-related distress.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers 24/7 support from trained professionals and connects callers with resources specific to their state. North Carolina residents calling the lifeline are connected to a team in Greenville, providing free and confidential assistance. Educating individuals about mental health resources and encouraging open conversations can help improve mental health outcomes and support those in need.
Overall, addressing mental health issues in the construction industry is critical for promoting a healthy work environment and supporting employees who may be struggling with their well-being. By normalizing discussions around mental health and providing access to resources, we can help create a more supportive workplace culture that prioritizes employee well-being.