Turning awareness into action for construction’s mental health crisis
Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in the construction industry, making mental health one of the industry’s most pressing challenges. In an effort to put the spotlight on mental health in construction, CONEXPO-CON/AGG raised over $112,000 in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) to support workers and expand access to critical resources.
Construction is known for one of the highest suicide rates of any industry in North America, with 41.9 deaths per 100,000 workers reported in 2024. According to experts, it’s tied to a number of causes, including long hours, fatigue and physical strain, work uncertainty, substance use, and widespread stigma around mental health.
Isolation and time away from loved ones are also contributing factors, according to research published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, which notes, “industry factors such as the transient contract-based nature of employment, frequent job changes, and extended periods away from home, can contribute to a sense of instability and isolation.”
Workers have spoken openly about the stigma surrounding mental health in construction, highlighting that admitting struggles can lead to being labeled weak—or even prevent future job opportunities. That fear adds another level of stress and makes it harder for many to seek help.
That’s why initiatives focused on awareness and support are so important. Efforts like the CONEXPO-CON/AGG and AFSP partnership mark a significant step in combating the deeply rooted stigma, bringing these conversations into the open, and normalizing the discourse around mental health in the construction industry.
More than 140,000 took part in this year’s trade show, with opportunities to access educational programming, learn about industry resources via an on-site engagement booth, and participate in an interactive discussion on the topic, hosted by Christine Yu Moutier, chief medical officer at AFSP.
The scale of CONEXPO-CON/AGG is crucial—bringing these conversations to such a large group helps normalize discussions about mental health and support systems for construction workers; this is a huge piece that has historically been missing on job sites.
Dana Wuesthoff, the show director for CONEXPO-CON/AGG, highlighted the importance of lending a helping hand to construction workers in need.
“The construction industry is built on people, and supporting their well-being is essential to the future of our workforce,” she said. “Our partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention helped bring important conversations about mental health to the forefront while also providing meaningful resources for the men and women who power this industry every day.”
Funds raised at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 will be used to support AFSP’s work through research, education, advocacy, and support for those who’ve been impacted by suicide, both on and off the jobsite.
What this means for contractors and crews
Mental health isn’t just a personal responsibility anymore—it’s becoming a shared responsibility across entire job sites. Companies are becoming increasingly aware that supporting worker well-being is a key component of maintaining a safe and productive work environment.
Across the industry, more companies are offering mental health resources and support programs to help workers cope. This includes peer support programs, training sessions and workshops, counseling services, and proactive efforts to address burnout and fatigue before they progress.
As conversations around mental health become more visible across the industry, initiatives like CONEXPO-CON/AGG’s fundraising efforts signal a broader shift—one where mental health and the well-being of workers are becoming a core part of how the industry operates.
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