Suicide Prevention Month 2025: Mental Health in the U.S. Construction Industry
September is Suicide Prevention Month — a critical time to shine a light on an issue that disproportionately affects the U.S. construction sector. For workers, employers, and anyone involved in building America, understanding the problem, spotting warning signs, and knowing what support is available can save lives.
Why the U.S. Construction Sector is Especially Vulnerable
Some sobering statistics: In 2021, construction workers in the U.S. had a suicide death rate of 46.1 per 100,000, which is more than 2.4 times higher than workers in all industries (19.5 per 100,000). Almost 1 in 5 (17.9%) of all suicides with a known industry were among construction workers — even though construction workers make up only ~7.4% of the U.S. workforce. For male construction workers, the suicide rate is even higher — around 50–56 per 100,000. Work-related stresses contribute heavily: seasonal fluctuations, job insecurity, project delays, long hours, frequent moves/travel, and physical injuries are all factors.
What to Watch For: Signs That Someone May Be Struggling
Every person is different, but there are common indicators: Sudden changes in mood — more irritable, withdrawn, despondent. Increasing absenteeism or lateness. Decline in performance or making more mistakes than usual. Pulling away from coworkers, friends, family. Talking or giving hints about hopelessness, feeling trapped, or burdensomeness. If you notice these signs in a coworker, a supervisor, or even yourself, it’s not your responsibility to “fix” everything — but reaching out can make a big difference.
What Employers Can Do
Employers in construction can play a huge role in preventing suicides and supporting mental health. Some actions to consider: Normalize mental health conversations — let it be OK for people to say they're stressed or hurting; ensure there's no shame. Training — mental health first aid or awareness training for managers and leads to help them recognise warning signs. Resources & access — make sure workers know about hotlines, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), counseling options, crisis support (like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). Manage workloads & schedules — avoid burnout by ensuring reasonable hours, breaks, and predictable, stable schedules where possible. Safety & injury rehab support — recovering from injury isn’t just physical; being sidelined can lead to isolation or increased anxiety. Lead by example — if leaders/Supervisors share their own stories (appropriately), or commit to mental wellness, that helps reduce stigma.
What Workers Can Do
If you’re feeling overwhelmed: Talk to someone you trust — a coworker, supervisor, family member, or friend. Use available helplines. In the U.S., dialing 988 connects you to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Seek professional help — therapists, counselors, or doctors can offer support. Practice self-care: rest, eating well, taking breaks, staying connected socially, and when possible, disconnecting after work. Even small steps help.
We Can Make a Difference Together
Suicide Prevention Month is a reminder that mental health matters just as much as physical safety on site. As a company committed to serving the construction industry, Approach Personnel is happy to raise awareness, work with employers, and provide support so that no one feels they’re alone.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or considering suicide: Call or text 988, the U.S. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — available 24/7. Reach out to local mental health resources or an Employee Assistance Program (if one exists in your company). You are not alone. Help is out there.