Recognizing the unique challenges faced by professionals in this field, the organization has launched a comprehensive resource hub dedicated to mental wellness. The initiative aims to change the industry's approach to mental health by providing actionable resources, sharing inspiring personal stories, and offering practical advice for both employers and employees.
With a focus on creating a supportive community, CONEXPO-CON/AGG is committed to bringing awareness to the mental health struggles prevalent in the construction sector and fostering an environment where seeking help and discussing mental wellness is normalized and encouraged.
“The construction industry is filled with professionals committed to precision in everything they do,” said CONEXPO-CON/AGG Show Director Dana Wuesthoff. “This level of attention and care must also be given to the mental health of all construction professionals. CONEXPO-CON/AGG is committed to breaking down stigmas and creating a future where mental health isn’t an afterthought but the cornerstone of our industry.”
Content includes a podcast where Denis Cashman, Co-Owner of Stone etc. Ltd., shares his battle with addiction and his triumphant journey of recovery. Another episode featuring Ryan Priestly, President of Priestly Demolition, discusses the stress of construction and how to maintain a work/life balance in an industry that doesn’t always make it easy to sit back and appreciate achievements.
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One of the articles, “Encouraging Men to Talk About Mental Health,” examines why research shows men die by suicide four times more than women. It also explores the path to destigmatizing mental health and how to encourage men and women to talk about these issues.
Other resources and articles cover topics like reducing and coping with stress on the job site, tips for supporting employees’ mental health, and a seven-step guide to improving mental health in construction.
The comprehensive resource hub can be found at conexpoconagg.com/mental-health.
In addition, over the next few months, the CONEXPO-CON/AGG 365 newsletter will feature content about mental health, including topics related to suicide, PTSD, and other mental health conditions prevalent in the construction industry. While the organization acknowledged that the topics can be challenging, they stressed one underlying feature: hope.
Resources are available to help. If you are in a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to speak to a crisis counselor now. You can also text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line and speak to a live, trained crisis counselor.
