Addressing Suicide Prevention in the Construction Industry

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin tackle a critical and often overlooked issue in the construction industry: suicide prevention. They are joined by Sonya Bohmann, the Executive Director of the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention (CIASP), who brings her expertise and personal experience to the conversation.

Sonya discusses the significant stigma surrounding mental health in the construction sector, which often prevents workers from seeking help. She emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment where individuals feel safe to express their struggles. The conversation highlights the alarming statistics related to suicide in the industry, with one in nine construction workers knowing someone who has attempted or died by suicide.

The hosts and Sonya delve into the resources available through CIASP, including a new initiative aimed at helping companies develop mental health and wellness programs. They also discuss the importance of community and connection, encouraging listeners to reach out to colleagues and check in on their well-being.

Throughout the episode, Sonya shares valuable insights on recognizing warning signs of mental distress and the importance of open conversations about mental health. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to utilize the resources provided by CIASP and to foster a culture of support within their workplaces.

This episode serves as a powerful reminder that addressing mental health and suicide prevention is not just a personal issue but a collective responsibility within the construction industry.