CBHerman - Think Outside the Box: Newsletter June 1, 2023

CBHerman - Think Outside the Box: Trial of Google BARD - Mental Health in Construction - June 1, 2023

Mental Health in Construction: A Critical IssueThe construction industry is a vital part of our economy, but it's also one that's known for its high rates of mental health issues. In fact, according to the CDC, construction workers are more likely to die by suicide than any other occupational group.
There are a number of factors that contribute to the high rates of mental health issues in construction, including:

• Long hours and demanding work conditions: Construction workers often work long hours in physically demanding conditions. This can lead to stress, fatigue, and burnout.
• Isolation: Construction workers are often isolated from their families and friends for long periods of time. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
• A culture of machismo: The construction industry is often seen as a "man's world." This can lead to men feeling pressure to bottle up their emotions and avoid seeking help for mental health issues.

It's important to remember that mental health issues are just as real and serious as physical health issues. If you're a construction worker who is struggling with your mental health, please know that you're not alone. There are resources available to help you.
Here are a few things you can do to support your mental health:

• Talk to someone you trust: Talk to a friend, family member, therapist, or other trusted person about what you're going through. Talking about your feelings can help you feel less alone and more supported.
• Take care of yourself: Make sure you're getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly. These things can help improve your mood and energy levels.
• Seek professional help: If you're struggling to cope with your mental health issues, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist can provide you with the support and tools you need to manage your mental health.

It's also important to create a mentally healthy workplace culture. This means creating an environment where workers feel comfortable talking about their mental health and seeking help when they need it. Here are a few tips for creating a mentally healthy workplace culture:

• Encourage open communication: Create an environment where workers feel comfortable talking about their mental health and well-being.
• Provide mental health resources: Make sure workers have access to mental health resources, such as therapy and counseling.
• Promote a positive work environment: Create a work environment that is supportive, respectful, and inclusive.

By taking these steps, we can help to reduce the stigma around mental health in construction and create a more mentally healthy workplace for everyone.
How to Help Improve Mental Health in ConstructionThere are a number of things that can be done to help improve mental health in construction, including:

• Educate workers about mental health: Many construction workers are unaware of the signs and symptoms of mental health issues. By educating workers about mental health, we can help them to identify and seek help for any problems they may be experiencing.
• Create a culture of open communication: It's important to create an environment where workers feel comfortable talking about their mental health. By creating a culture of open communication, we can help to reduce the stigma around mental health and encourage workers to seek help when they need it.
• Provide mental health resources: Make sure workers have access to mental health resources, such as therapy and counseling. By providing mental health resources, we can help workers to get the help they need to manage their mental health.
• Promote a positive work environment: Create a work environment that is supportive, respectful, and inclusive. By promoting a positive work environment, we can help to reduce stress and improve the overall well-being of construction workers.

By taking these steps, we can help to create a more mentally healthy workplace for construction workers.