American Foundation for Suicide Prevention works to raise mental health awareness among construction workers
The construction industry has one of the highest suicide rates of any profession in the U.S., according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In fact, the number of suicides in the industry is nearly five times higher than the number of lives lost in job site safety incidents, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
David Wessen has worked in the construction industry for over three decades and now helps oversee safety at worksites.
He volunteers with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and organized their Hike for Hope, a community event for construction workers and their families.
Wessen said a variety of factors, including the risk of injury, uncertain work schedules and time away from family, all contribute to higher incidences of suicide in the industry.
Wesson joined “All Things Considered” to discuss the best things companies can do for their employees. He says companies should create spaces for employees to open up about their struggles and connect them with resources that can help.
Christopher Alston contributed to this report.
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