FW Walton - Suicide Awareness Month

September is Suicide Prevention Month: Your Mental Health Matters, We are here for YOU!

Changing the culture in the construction and roofing industry is crucial, and that starts with normalizing conversations about mental health and breaking the stigma that often prevents workers from seeking help By promoting mental health resources, integrating suicide prevention into our safety plans, and supporting our employees through initiatives like the MindWise screening tool, FW Walton can play a vital role in preventing suicide and creating a healthier, more supportive work environment

MINDFULNESS MOMENT:

Take 60 Seconds to Breathe: Sit comfortably

Close your eyes

Breathe in deeply for 4 seconds

Hold for 2 seconds. Exhale slowly for 6 seconds. Repeat three times.

HELPFUL REMINDERS:

Check-In: Take 5 minutes today to ask a colleague how they're doing Stay Hydrated: Drink at least 8 glasses of water

Take Breaks: Step away from your work every hour to clear your mind

ALWAYS REMEMBER:

You are stronger than you know, more capable than you ever dreamed, and loved more than you could possibly imagine.

Suicide Prevention in Construction

We are deeply committed to addressing the serious issue of mental health within the construction and roofing industry. Recognizing that our industry has one of the highest suicide rates, we are dedicated to providing support and resources to help combat this crisis. Our team faces significant challenges, including intense job pressure, physical and mental exhaustion, and financial stress from layoffs Understanding these factors is crucial to supporting our workforce effectively

By raising awareness and promoting open discussions about mental health, we aim to create a culture where every team member feels valued and supported Your well-being is our priority, and we are dedicated to exploring and implementing effective resources and strategies to ensure a healthier and more supportive workplace for all

Understanding the crisis

Suicide Rate:

The construction industry has the second-highest suicide rate of all major industries in the U S

Contributing Factors

What Contributes to the Crisis:

Opioid Misuse: Chronic pain from injuries often leads to opioid misuse, increasing suicide risk

Workforce Demographics

Who Is Affected:

97% of the U S construction workforce is male

38% of construction workers are aged 45-64

1 in 5 adults in the U S are living with a mental illness, but less than half are seeking treatment

Cultural Barriers: The "tough guy" culture discourages seeking help

High pressure, competitive and high-risk work environments

Physical and mental exhaustion from long hours, long commutes and physically demanding work

Seasonal layoffs and financial stress

Building a Safer Workplace: Suicide Prevention Resources

You Are Not Alone: If you're struggling, reach out to someone a friend, a family member, or a professional Help is available

Take Action: Let's look out for each other If you notice someone who seems off, don’t hesitate to check in on them. Your small act of kindness could save a life.

Contact Us: If you need someone to talk to, reach out to HR. We’re here to support you.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Talking about suicide

Self-loathing, self-hatred

Withdrawing from others

Self-destruction

Hopelessness

Decreased productivity

Talking about being a burden

Extreme mood swings

Increased tardiness or absenteeism

Giving away their belongings

Show your concern, respond quickly, offer help and support, and call 988 for ideas on how to assist your co-worker. You can also reach out to our HR department or anyone in the company you trust for further guidance.

Mental Health America

National Alliance on Mental Illness

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

National Roofing Contractor Association

Construction Industry Alliance