The latest data shows that the construction industry has the second-highest suicide rate in the country—with the suicide rate among construction workers at four times the national average. And young adults—the ones most likely to work in construction—are most at risk for depression and other mental disorders. It’s also a male-dominated industry, one that prizes a macho culture. There’s a stigma associated with mental health challenges, so construction workers aren’t likely to reach out for help without being encouraged to do so.

The good news is, your employees will follow your lead. They won’t magically become more aware of mental health challenges and the importance of reaching out for help just because you say so. But you can take active steps to change the culture inside your organization.

Raising awareness of the growing suicide rate is a challenge. You don’t want to scare your employees, but empower them instead. Team building activities can provide an opportunity to bring your team together so they can begin to watch out for each other and support each other when times are rough.

Begin by sharing information about mental health in an authentic, meaningful way. This should not be a formal presentation at your annual training meeting. Instead, think small group formats or a break-out session. If you aren’t comfortable handling the topic yourself, work with a third party to create an appropriate training venue for your employees. You can even reach out to your insurance broker for resources.

构建程序时，请确保包括有关混凝土行为和迹象的信息，例如压力，可观察到的抑郁症和自杀行为的症状。自杀死亡的人中，约有70％首先发出某种信号的直接或间接陈述。您的员工不需要诊断他们的同事，但是他们可以确定关注点并与同事或人力资源联系以寻求指导。

为他们提供危险因素和警告信号的清单，其中可能包括自杀或创伤的家族史，从严重的身体疾病，以前的自杀尝试，财务或关系压力，缺乏支持网络和有关心理健康的文化污名中挥之不去的问题。精神压力的其他指标可能包括体重和食欲变化，慢性头痛，焦虑和犹豫，动机丧失，敏感性提高，自尊心低，吸烟和饮酒，戒断或侵略性，鲁ck行为和困难集中。

Despite the financial and emotional strain, contractors must create a supportive, open environment for their employees. Those who struggle with mental health challenges do better when they feel they have a supportive “village” around them. If you can create that village at your organization, you and your employees will both benefit.

最后，心理健康需要专业人员的帮助 - 幸运的是，许多雇主已经拥有协助此问题的工具。员工援助提供商（EAP）是一项为员工及其家人提供短期心理健康支持的服务。

Through the EAP, employees can even receive referrals for longer-term support. The best part is that at most firms, it’s something you already pay for as part of your benefits package. Encourage your employees to enter the number for the EAP in their cell phone contacts. And make sure they know that help can be found there and throughout your entire company.