Under the Hard Hat

Tag: Mental health

  • Light it up for NDEAM 2024

    Light it up for NDEAM 2024

    October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), and the Light It Up! for NDEAM event takes place across Canada on October 17, 2024. Light It Up began in 2020 when the Ontario Disability Employment Network (ODEN) started the event to recognize the many ways in which people with disabilities contribute to successful businesses and healthy communities. 

    ODEN asked businesses, government offices, and community organizations to illuminate their buildings with purple light to honor the day—the event was so successful that it became a national event in 2021. Thousands of locations across Canada will turn purple to celebrate Light It Up! for NDEAM in 2024, including Toronto’s CN tower, Edmonton’s High Level Bridge, and the Manitoba Legislature. 

    2024 NDEAM participants

    Alberta

    Calgary

    • Calgary Tower
    • Olympic Park
    • Reconciliation Bridge
    • Deaf & Hear Alberta Building

    Edmonton

    • High Level Bridge
    • Government of Canada — Canada Place
    • Alberta Legislature

    Fort McMurray

    • Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo — Saline Creek Pedestrian Bridge

    Grande Prairie

    • Sundial at Center 2000
    • City Center Welcome Sign

    Medicine Hat

    • Towne Square

    Okotoks

    • Municipal Centre

    Red Deer

    • City Hall

    Sylvan Lake

    • Lighthouse — Rotary Lighthouse Park

    British Columbia

    Burnaby

    • City Hall
    • BC Parkway

    Chilliwack

    • Chilliwack Society For Community Living — Employment Services
    • Chilliwack Heritage Park Pattison Outdoor Advertising Digital Sign
    • Vedder Road Pattison Outdoor Advertising Digital Sign
    • Cottonwood Mall Digital Sign

    Coquitlam

    • Fountain — Lafarge Lake
    • Light Columns — Guilford Way
    • Light Columns — Pinetree Way

    Cranbrook

    • REALM Services Inc.

    Grand Forks

    • Sunshine Valley Community Services
    • Grand Forks Gazette
    • Work & Play
    • Habitat for Humanity Restore
    • Mountainview Meats
    • Simran’s No Frills
    • Gallery II Art Gallery

    Kelowna

    • Pacific Coast Community Services Day Program
    • Thompson Community Services

    Ladysmith

    • Town Hall
    • Ladysmith Signature Sign – Bob Stuart Park
    • Ladysmith Signature Sign – 1st Avenue

    Langley

    • Global Pet Food
    • Willowbrook Dairy Queen
    • Willowbrook Safeway
    • MEC
    • Willowbrook M&M’s
    • Running Room
    • Wild Birds Unlimited
    • Soccer West
    • Noodlebox
    • Hi Five Chicken
    • Value Mobile
    • Fresh Healthy Café
    • Maven
    • Streats

    Nanaimo

    • The Bastion

    Penticton

    • Penticton Lakeside Resort
    • South Okanagan Events Center
    • Boston Pizza
    • Hotel Penticton
    • Penticton and District Society for Community Living Office
    • arc programs

    Port Moody

    • City Hall

    Revelstoke

    • Pacific Coast Community Services

    Surrey

    • Government of Canada — Burnaby-Fraser Tax Services Office
    • Victoria Street Bridge Trail

    Vancouver

    • BC Place
    • Vancouver Convention Center
    • Bloedel Conservatory
    • Science World
    • TELUS Garden City Tower
    • Government of Canada — Property 16956, 125 E. 10th Ave.

    Victoria

    • Legislative Assembly of BC — Ceremonial Entrance, Center Fountain, Centennial (Back) Fountain, Confederation Park Garden

    Whistler

    • Fitzsimmons Covered Bridge

    White Rock

    • City of White Rock — White Rock Pier

    Williams Lake

    • City Hall

    Manitoba

    Beausejour

    • Co-op Administration Office
    • Pennyweight Market
    • Coldwell Banker Real Estate
    • Access Credit Union
    • Town of Beausejour Office
    • Dawson Chiropractic Center
    • Ja-ed Professional Suites
    • Supported Employment Options office
    • Association for Community Living — Beausejour Branch
    • Century 21
    • Beausejour Sportsplex (Sun Gro Centre)
    • Beausejour & District Chamber of Commerce (Chamber Sign)
    • Breezy Oaks Inn and Tavern
    • Guardian Pharmacy
    • Happy Go Lucy’s
    • Eastman Dental Group
    • Brokenhead Sausage
    • Headlines for Hair
    • Beau-head Seniors Association
    • Red Apple
    • Meraki Hair Studio
    • Daien Denture Clinic
    • Airliner Drive-In
    • Network4Change
    • HUB International
    • Beausejour Chiropractor
    • Beausejour GM
    • Community Futures
    • Annette’s
    • Chef in the House
    • First Street Auto
    • Royal Bank of Canada
    • Concetta’s Closet
    • TELUS
    • Kerryleegh Hildebrandtt RMT — Clinic
    • Spirit of the Boreal
    • Rexall Pharmacy
    • The Floral Merchant
    • Brio Insurance
    • Beausejour Dental Center
    • Sobetski Enterprises Ltd.
    • Heavenly Health
    • Soberings Funeral Chapel and Crematorium
    • Serenity Gift Shoppe
    • Clipper Weekly
    • Cottage Country Cannabis
    • Tim Hortons
    • Beausejour Rehabilitation
    • Home Hardware
    • Tarantism Dance Co.
    • Agassiz Adult Education Center
    • Brokenhead River Regional Library
    • Capt’n Vape
    • Needle Crafts and Studio
    • Midnight Show
    • Co-operators — Derlago Insurance Group
    • McMunn & Yates Building Supplies
    • Beausejour Hotel
    • Howland Hotel
    • Beausejour Community Church
    • Wayne Ewasko, MLA for Lac Du Bonnet — Constituency Office

    Lac Du Bonnet

    • Access Credit Union
    • Grans Bake Shoppe
    • Carnation Corner
    • Manitoba Made
    • Red Apple
    • Rona
    • Lac Du Bonnet Library
    • Dancyts Fine Foods
    • HUB International
    • Town of Lac Du Bonnet Office
    • Lac Du Bonnet Clipper
    • Lucci’s Tool
    • Mrs. Lucci’s Second Hand
    • Mrs. Lucci’s Resource Center
    • Cottage Country Cannabis
    • Agility Physio
    • Lakeview Steakhouse and Pub
    • Lac Du Bonnet Physiotherapy
    • Lac Du Bonnet Dental Clinic

    Winnipeg

    • RBC Convention Center
    • Canada Life HQ
    • Reaching E-Quality Employment Services
    • Connect Employment Services
    • Red River College Polytechnic — Exchange District Campus (160 Princess Street)
    • Red River College Polytechnic — Exchange District Campus (504 Main Street)
    • Red River College Polytechnic — Elgin Plaza
    • Red River College Polytechnic — Notre Dame Campus
    • Esplanade Riel
    • Winnipeg Sign at The Forks
    • Manitoba Legislature
    • Princess Auto Stadium (formerly IG Field)
    • ANAF Club 60

    New Brunswick

    Bathurst

    • Promenade Waterfront Tower

    Belle-Baie

    • Municipality of Belle-Baie — The Beresford sector

    Eastern Charlotte County

    • St. George Canada Post
    • Bayview Credit Union
    • YMCA in Eastern Charlotte County
    • CCM Garage
    • Connors Brothers
    • Country Market
    • Extra Mural
    • St. George and Area Foodbank
    • Fundy Lifestyle
    • Fundy Nursing Home
    • Granite Town Farms
    • St. George Pharmacy Inc.
    • High Tides Hair
    • Boyd Bros. Home Hardware Building Center
    • Hooper’s Convenience Store Irving
    • Daniel’s Your Independent Grocer
    • CCMA — Charlotte County Multicultural Association
    • Scotiabank
    • St. George Insurance
    • Subway
    • T. Spear Electric Ltd.
    • Town Office of Eastern Charlotte
    • The Hub
    • Repeat Boutique
    • Harbor Road Pub & Eatery
    • ECW — Eastern Charlotte Waterways Inc.
    • CCM Towing
    • APM Auto Parts
    • Holland Fuels
    • Erase MediClinic
    • The Kitchen
    • Silk Stevens Limited
    • The Butcher
    • Main Envy Hair & Esthetics
    • Granite Town Barber Shop
    • Pub On Main
    • ANR Chartered Professional Accountants PC Inc
    • St. George Fish Market
    • Rituals Hair And Esthetics
    • Charlotte County Registered Massage Therapy Inc
    • Charlotte County Adult Learning Inc
    • Carquest Auto Parts – Vance’s Auto Supplies
    • Fix-It Fergie’s Appliance Service
    • Vance’s Garage
    • Fortune River Restaurant
    • Cross Hairs Beauty Salon
    • Results 360 Fitness & Wellness Studio

    Edmundston

    • City Hall

    Fredericton

    • Government House (Lieutenant-Governor’s Residence)

    Grand Bay-Westfield

    • Veterans Peace Park

    Miramichi

    • Government of Canada — Mirimachi Pay Center

    Moncton

    • Downing Street

    Perth-Andover

    • Carleton Victoria Community Vocational Board

    Saint Andrews

    • Town Hall

    St. George

    • Community Living Center

    St. Stephen

    • St. Croix Vocational Center Inc.
    • St. Croix Vocational Center Thrift Store

    Tracadie

    • Regional Municipality of Tracadie — Town Hall of the Regional Municipality of Tracadie

    Newfoundland and Labrador

    Channel-Port aux Basques

    • Town Hall

    Conception Bay South

    • Lupine Planning Group

    Corner Brook

    • Government of Canada — Joseph R. Smallwood Bldg.

    Gander

    • Town Hall

    Grand Falls-Windsor

    • Town Hall

    Mount Pearl

    • SPCA Thrift Store

    Springdale

    • Green Bay Community Employment Corp.

    St. Anthony

    • Town Hall

    St. John’s

    • City Hall
    • Avalon Employment Office
    • Cabot Tower at Signal Hill National Historic Site
    • Stingray Radio
    • Sobeys (Kelsey Drive)
    • College of the North Atlantic — Prince Phillip Campus
    • Bannerman Park Bandstand
    • Inclusion Canada NL Office
    • Skills Canada NL Office
    • Confederation Building
    • Terry Fox Memorial
    • Government of Canada — The John Cabot Building
    • Government House

    Twillingate

    • Town Hall

    Northwest Territories

    Yellowknife

    • Diamond Plaza
    • NWT Career Center

    Nova Scotia

    Amherst

    • Nova Scotia Works Office

    Antigonish

    • Nova Scotia Works Career Connections

    Baddeck

    • Nova Scotia Works — Baddeck Resource Center

    Bedford

    • Commissionaires Nova Scotia Regional Headquarters

    Beaver Bank

    • Dave Wagg (Immigrant Services Assn. of Nova Scotia) — Personal Residence

    Coldbank

    • Emergency Health Services – EMC Emergency Care Inc. — EHS Base

    Dartmouth

    • Easter Seals Nova Scotia

    Guysborough

    • Nova Scotia Works Career Connections

    Halifax

    • Halifax Seaport District
    • Province House

    Ingonish

    • Nova Scotia Works — Ingonish Resource Center

    Mill Village

    • Riverbank General Store

    New Glasgow

    • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pictou County
    • Highland Community Residential Services Office
    • Nova Scotia Works Career Connections

    North Sydney

    • Nova Scotia Works Office

    Paqtnkek

    • Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation Band Office

    Pictou

    • King Freight Lines Ltd.

    Pointe de l’Église

    • Université Saint-Anne — Triangular monument in front of the campus

    Shelburne

    • Southwest Employment Services Office

    Sherbrooke

    • Sherbrooke Village Administration Office

    Sydney (Cape Breton)

    • The Big Fiddle

    Truro

    • Canadian Armed Forces – The Nova Scotia Highlanders Regimental Headquarters
    • Nova Scotia Highlanders – Truro Armory

    Yarmouth

    • Southwest Employment Services Office

    Nunavut

    There were no participating locations at the time of publication

    Ontario

    Aurora

    • Aurora Town Square

    Barrie

    • City of Barrie — Barrie Signature Sign
    • Empower Simcoe Administrative Building — 39 Fraser Court

    Bothwell

    • Michael Dawthorne (ODEN Board Past Chair) — Personal Residence

    Bracebridge

    • Bracebridge Falls
    • Community Living South Muskoka Office

    Brampton

    • City Hall Clock Tower
    • Brampton (A. Grenville and William Davis) Courthouse
    • Personal Residence — Jeannette Campbell, ODEN CEO

    Brantford

    • City Hall
    • SOAR Community Services Office
    • Penman’s Dam

    Brockville

    • Career Services of Brockville
    • St. Lawrence College Entrance Sign

    Burlington

    • Brant Street Pier

    Cambridge

    • Starling Community Services — Employment Services

    Carleton Place

    • Central Bridge

    Chatham

    • Government of Canada — Judy Lamarsh Building
    • Government of Canada — Tecumseh Federal Building

    Chesley

    • “Big Bruce” Bull Statue

    Cobourg

    • Watton Employment Services

    Collingwood

    • Government of Canada Building — 44 Hurontario St.

    Cornwall

    • Seaway International Bridge Pier
    • St. Lawrence College Entrance Sign

    Dundalk

    • Gold Spoon Café (in partnership with Rise and Soar Community)

    Essex

    • Community Living Essex Office

    Flesherton

    • Southeast Gray Support Services — north road sign
    • Southeast Gray Support Services — south road sign
    • Life Directions — office window

    Gravenhurst

    • Muskoka Taekwondo

    Guelph

    • Ontario Government Building — 1 Stone Road West
    • Starling Community Services — Employment Services

    Fort Erie

    • Peace Bridge

    Haliburton

    • Fleming CREW Employment Services

    Hamilton

    • Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum — CF-104 Starfighter
    • Hamilton City Hall
    • Hamilton Signature Sign

    Hanover

    • Civic Center

    Hawkesbury

    • Prescott-Russell Employment Service Centre

    Huntsville

    • YMCA Employment & Learning Services
    • Community Living Huntsville Administration Office

    Kanata

    • Brook Street Hotel

    Kawartha Lakes

    • City Hall

    Kincardine

    • VPI Employment Services Office Bldg.

    Kingston

    • City Hall
    • Springer Market Square
    • St. Lawrence College Entrance Sign
    • Government of Canada Building — 86 Clarence St.

    Kitchener

    • Agilec
    • Starling Community Services — Employment Services

    Lanark

    • Performance Plus Rehabilitative Care Inc. — Home Office

    Leamington

    • Leamington Library Sign

    Lion’s Head

    • Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula — Municipal Office
    • Brightshores Health System Lion’s Head Hospital

    London

    • City Hall
    • JA Taylor Building
    • RBC Place London
    • Canada Life HQ
    • Government of Canada — Dominion Public Building
    • Government of Canada Building — 451 Talbot St.

    Markdale

    • Brightshores Health System Markdale Hospital

    Markham

    • City Hall
    • Markham Gateway Sign

    Meaford

    • Brightshores Health System Meaford Hospital

    Midland

    • Town Hall

    Milton

    • Ontario Government Building — 491 Steeles Ave. East

    Mississauga

    • Civic Center Clock Tower
    • VPI Employment Services

    Newmarket

    • York Region Administration Center Clock Tower
    • Riverwalk Commons
    • Fred A. Lundy Bridge

    Niagara Falls

    • Horseshoe Canadian Falls
    • American Falls
    • Niagara Region — Niagara Region Signature Sign

    North Bay

    • Canadore College
    • March of Dimes Canada — Kennedy Bldg., 3rd Flr.
    • North Bay & District Chamber of Commerce
    • Yes Employment Services
    • Community Living North Bay — Main Office
    • PHARA Office
    • March of Dimes Canada Employment Services — Kennedy Bldg.
    • Cascades Casino North Bay
    • Parker’s Independent Grocer
    • Food Basics — cash registers
    • Pharmasave Algonquin
    • Vic Fedeli, MPP — Consituency Office
    • Anthony Rota, MP Nipissing-Timiskaming — Consituency Office
    • North Bay Transit Building
    • Phil’s Lakeshore Pharmacy
    • Fairfield Inn & Suites North Bay
    • Ontario Government Building — 200 First Ave
    • Nipissing University Student Center
    • The Salvation Army North Bay Ministries
    • Motion
    • Suswin Village
    • Capital Center (Marquis Sign)
    • Beyond Buttons
    • 101.9 The Fox North Bay

    Oakville

    • Town Hall
    • Glen Abbey — Historical Building

    Oshawa

    • Ontario Michael Starr Building

    Ottawa

    • Ontario Government Building — 161 Elgin Street
    • Government of Canada — Thomas D’Arcy McGee Building
    • Government of Canada — James Michael Flaherty Building
    • Government of Canada — Skyline Complex (Towers 1 to 7)
    • Government of Canada — CD Howe Building
    • Government of Canada — Sir William Logan Building
    • Government of Canada — 555 Booth (Natural Resources Canada)
    • Government of Canada — Geological Survey Building
    • Government of Canada — Geomatics Canada Building
    • Government of Canada — East Memorial Building
    • Government of Canada — Public Archives and National Library
    • Government of Canada — St. Andrew’s Tower
    • Government of Canada — John D. Diefenbaker Building
    • Government of Canada — Lester B. Pearson Building
    • Government of Canada — Department of National Defense Building 5 Carling Campus
    • Government of Canada — L’Esplanade Laurier
    • Government of Canada — Connaught Building

    Orillia

    • Agilec
    • Ontario Government Building — Lincoln M. Alexander Building
    • Empower Simcoe Administrative Building — 35 West St. N.

    Owen Sound

    • Brightshores Health System Owen Sound Hospital
    • Brightshores Health System Wellness & Recovery Center

    Paris

    • The Raw Carrot Soup Enterprise

    Peterborough

    • Muskoka-Kawarthas Employment Services
    • Ontario Government Building — Robinson Place
    • Alternatives Community Program Services — Employment Services
    • YMCA of Central East Ontario — Employment Services

    Port Elgin

    • Port Elgin Community Complex

    Quinte West

    • Veterans Skyway Bridge

    Sarnia

    • City Hall
    • Sarnia Signature Sign
    • Government of Canada Building — 105 Christina St.

    Sault Ste. Marie

    • Ontario Government — Roberta Bondar Place

    Southampton

    • Brightshores Health System Southampton Hospital
    • Town Hall

    Sudbury

    • March of Dimes Canada Employment Services
    • Adult and Youth Enrichment Center Campus
    • Spark Employment Services
    • Collège Boréal
    • Nolin Center
    • Sudbury Food Bank — Lorne Street windows
    • Sudbury Food Bank — Tree in front
    • Independent Living Resource Center
    • Noon Rizers Cafe
    • Ontario Government Building — 159 Cedar Street
    • Government of Canada — Taxation Data Center
    • Government of Canada Building — 19 Lisgar St.
    • Northern Vocational Services

    St. Catharines

    • Ontario Government Building — Garden City Tower

    St. Marys

    • Perth County Ingredients

    St. Thomas

    • “Jumbo” The Elephant Monument

    Thunder Bay

    • City Hall
    • Current River Dam
    • Ontario Government Building — 189 Red River Road

    Timmins

    • Timmins Signature Sign at Timmins Museum National Exhibition Center
    • Government of Canada Building — 120 Cedar St.

    Toronto

    • Humber Polytechnic (North Campus) — Barrett Center For Technology Innovation
    • Canada Life Building
    • CN Tower
    • TELUS Harbor (25 York Street Tower)
    • Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital
    • Ontario Government Building — 125 Resources Road
    • 3D Toronto Sign at Nathan Phillips Square
    • CNE Princes’ Gate
    • Government of Canada — Joseph Shephard Building
    • Government of Canada — Environment Canada Building
    • Government of Canada — Canada Centre, 200 Town Center Blvd.
    • Government of Canada Building — 25 St. Clair Ave. E.

    Vaughan

    • City Hall

    Walkerton

    • VPI Employment Services Office Bldg.
    • Saugeen Mobility and Regional Transit — SMART Building
    • Saugeen Mobility and Regional Transit — Brockton Maintenance Building — SMART Office

    Walpole Island First Nation

    • Walpole Island Administration Building
    • Walpole Island Employment and Training Building

    Wiarton

    • Brightshores Health System Wiarton Hospital

    Windsor

    • City Hall
    • Caesars Entertainment Windsor
    • St. Clair College Windsor Campus
    • St. Clair College Center for the Arts
    • Government of Canada Building — 441 University

    Woodstock

    • Crafty Corner Tea Room

    Prince Edward Island

    Charlottetown

    • City Hall Clock Tower
    • Government of PEI — Shaw Building
    • Government of Canada — Jean Canfield Building

    Mouse

    • Mouse Town Lights

    Summerside

    • City Hall
    • Credit Union Place
    • Government of Canada — Joseph A. Ghiz Building

    Three Rivers

    • Three Rivers Town Hall Tower

    Quebec

    Gatineau

    • Canadian Transport Agency Building (60 Laval)
    • Government of Canada — Portage III
    • Government of Canada — Portage IV
    • Government of Canada Building — 30 Victoria
    • Government of Canada — Place du Centre
    • Government of Canada — Les Terrasses de la Chaudière
    • Government of Canada — National Printing Bureau

    Laprairie

    • Viandes AMS Inc.

    Montreal

    • Olympic Stadium
    • Government of Canada – Guy-Favreau “Basilaire” Complex

    Quebec City

    • Government of Canada — NEQ (Transport Canada), 1550 d’Estimauville

    Saskatchewan

    Estevan

    • City Hall
    • Municipal Water Tower
    • Estevan Diversified Services

    Gravelbourg

    • Gravelbourg Bon Ami Inc.

    Hudson Bay

    • Inclusion Hudson Bay — Inclusion Center (Main Bldg.)

    Melville

    • Rail City Industries — Main Bldg.

    Mistusinne

    • Mayor’s Residence

    Moose Jaw

    • City Hall
    • Moose Jaw Diversified Industries — Main Bldg.
    • Moose Jaw Diversified Services — Main Bldg.

    Prince Albert

    • Hope’s Home – 540 1st Ave. East
    • Wintersun 420
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — Main Office
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 1832 17th Ave. W. Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 2325 1st Ave. E. Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 1655 Muir Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 1833 17th Ave. W. Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 815 13th St. W. Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 714 28th St. E. Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 726 28th St. E. Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 742 28th St. E. Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 486 28th St. E. Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 490 28th St. E. Resident House

    Regina

    • Juliana Pizza
    • South Sask Independent Living Center
    • Hope’s Home (Regina) – 350 College Ave.
    • Hope’s Home (Regina Rosswood) – 7695 Mapleford Blvd.
    • City Hall
    • Regina Residential Resource Center (RRRC) — 812 Victoria Ave. Office
    • Regina Residential Resource Center (RRRC) — 1835 Victoria Ave. Office
    • Regina Residential Resource Center (RRRC) — Wadley Drive Office
    • HELP Homes of Regina — Garnet St. Office
    • HELP Homes of Regina — Angus St. Office
    • HELP Homes of Regina — James Hill Road Group Home
    • HELP Homes of Regina — Froom Cresc. Group Home
    • HELP Homes of Regina — Harding St. Group Home
    • HELP Homes of Regina — McMurchy Ave. Group Home
    • HELP Homes of Regina — Wallace St. Group Home
    • HELP Homes of Regina — Lacon St. Group Home
    • HELP Homes of Regina — McCarthy Blvd. N. Group Home

    Saskatoon

    • SARC Office – 111 Cardinal St.
    • SaskAbilities – Partners in Employment Office
    • SaskAbilities – Provincial Services Office
    • SaskAbilities – Kilburn Training Center
    • Cheshire Homes of Saskatoon
    • SaskTel Center
    • Hope’s Home – 217 Fairmont Drive
    • Hope’s Home (Saskatoon Brookdale) – 339 Brookdale Cresc.
    • Hope’s Home (Saskatoon Moxon) – 71 Moxon Cresc.
    • Cosmo Industries Main Bldg.
    • Radius Community Center for Education & Employment
    • Community Living Association Saskatoon (CLASI)
    • Light of the Prairies — 925 McKercher Drive
    • Light of the Prairies — 1528 37th St. West
    • Light of the Prairies — 1638 Edward Ave.
    • Light of the Prairies — 1875 Easthill
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — Main Office
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 456 Whitney Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 1424 1st Ave. N. Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 607 3rd Ave. N. Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 1639 1st Ave. N. Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 3002 33rd St. W. Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 2932 33rd St. W. Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 1635 Avenue D N. Resident House
    • Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch — 326 West Hampton Blvd. Resident House
    • Autism Services of Saskatoon — 2155 Airport Drive Office
    • Autism Services of Saskatoon — Main Bldg., 209 Fairmont Drive

    Swift Current

    • City Hall — Digital Billboard

    Warman

    • Hope’s Home – 403 Traditions Blvd.

    Watrous

    • Watrous “Men of Iron” Railway Statue
    • Interlake Human Resources — Main Bldg.
    • Watrous Pharmacy
    • Realty Executives
    • Affinity Credit Union
    • RBC
    • The Watrous Manitou Newspaper
    • Western Financial Insurance
    • Watrous Town Office
    • Hugsy’s Place/Jake’s Place Bowling Alley
    • Watrous Library
    • 306 Day Spa

    Weyburn

    • Wor-kin Shop
    • City Hall

    Yukon

    Whitehorse

    • Government of Canada — Elijah Smith Building
    • Inclusion Yukon Office

  • Mental toughness is a must in construction—here are 7 secrets to develop it

    Mental toughness is a must in construction—here are 7 secrets to develop it

    Mental toughness isn’t just for elite athletes or the military—we all need it. Whether handling a stressful workday, pushing through a challenging workout, or staying calm in traffic, mental toughness helps us navigate life’s ups and downs with resilience and grace—and you can build it. Focusing on positivity, practicing acceptance, and taking ownership of your mistakes are simple ways to cultivate mental toughness. 

    What is mental toughness?

    Mental toughness is like a secret weapon—everyone has their own version. It’s all about defining what it means to you personally. Maybe for you, it’s about staying cool under pressure, or maybe it’s about bouncing back from setbacks faster than before. Whatever your definition, it’s important to stay flexible and allow your idea of mental toughness to evolve as you do. Because, guess what? Your expectations might change as you grow and improve, too—and that’s a good thing! Mental toughness isn’t about being unshakeable; it’s about adapting, learning, and being okay with stepping out of your comfort zone.

    Why mental toughness matters

    Motivation is often the first spark that gets us going, but it’s mental toughness that keeps the flame alive when the initial excitement wears off. Mental toughness is like the engine that keeps you moving forward, even when the road gets bumpy. It allows us to be resilient and adaptable. Life always throws curveballs, and those who can bounce back and adapt without losing their stride tend to come out stronger. 

    Mental toughness also plays a crucial role in reducing stress. When you’re mentally tough, you can manage your emotions better, keeping stress from overwhelming you. And let’s not forget about better performance. When you’re mentally tough, you can maintain consistency, discipline, and focus, naturally leading to improved performance in all aspects of your life.

    And to top it off, mental toughness significantly increases your likelihood of success. Success isn’t about never failing; it’s about not letting failure stop you. Mentally tough people understand that setbacks are just stepping stones, not roadblocks. They keep pushing forward, learning from each experience, and refining their approach until they reach their goals.

    Build habits, not motivation

    Motivation is like a fleeting burst of energy—powerful but short-lived. This is why relying solely on motivation can lead to inconsistency and frustration. Habits, on the other hand, are the true building blocks of mental toughness. Establishing strong habits creates a stable foundation that guides your actions even when motivation is low. Think of habits as automatic behaviors that don’t require the same mental energy to initiate, making it easier to stay on track with your goals.

    As you repeatedly perform these habits, you start to build momentum—each small win adds up, reinforcing your belief in your ability to succeed. This consistency fosters discipline, turning actions that once required effort into routines that feel natural. Over time, these habits cultivate grit, enabling you to push through challenges with resilience and determination. So, rather than chasing motivation, focus on building habits that will carry you through the highs and lows with unwavering resolve. 

    7 habits to build mental toughness

    1. Stop the negative self-talk and focus on positivity

    How often do you catch yourself engaging in negative self-talk? It’s easy to be your own worst critic, but what if you treated yourself with the same kindness you’d offer a close friend? For many people, this habit often goes unnoticed and destroys self-confidence without the person even realizing it. 

    By becoming aware of and challenging your negative thoughts, you can shift your mindset towards positivity. This doesn’t mean ignoring reality but rather focusing on what’s constructive and empowering. Treat yourself with the same respect and encouragement you would give someone you care about, and you’ll be surprised to see just how much further this may get you.

    2. Practice acceptance

    Let’s face it: nobody’s perfect. Acceptance is about acknowledging your flaws and mistakes without judgment. It’s not about giving up; it’s about understanding that growth comes from recognizing where you are now and moving forward. When you accept your faults, you free yourself from the pressure of perfectionism and open the door to genuine improvement. Focus on what you can control, and let go of the rest.

    3. Celebrate small wins

    Building mental toughness starts with recognizing and celebrating the small victories. Every time you accomplish something, no matter how minor it seems, it’s a step forward. By acknowledging these wins, you reinforce positive behavior and build momentum, making it easier to tackle bigger challenges down the line. This habit keeps your motivation high and reminds you that progress is being made, even in small doses.

    4. Take care of your body

    Mental resilience is closely tied to physical well-being. Regular exercise, meditation, good nutrition, quality sleep, and maintaining hygiene are all essential habits that support mental health. Taking care of your body makes you better equipped to handle stress and recover from setbacks. Self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity for building and maintaining resilience.

    5. Find purpose

    Purpose doesn’t have to be a grand, life-altering mission. It’s about finding something that challenges you and pushes you to grow. Whether it’s a personal project, a fitness goal, or a work objective, having a purpose gives you direction and motivation. It’s the “why” behind your actions and what keeps you going when the going gets tough. But the key to getting this right is aligning it with your morals and lifestyle. If these align, you will likely find little to no resistance in pursuing this purpose.

    6. Take ownership of your mistakes

    Accountability is a cornerstone of mental toughness. When you make a mistake, own it. Taking responsibility for your actions, rather than blaming others or making excuses, allows you to learn from the experience and move forward. This habit builds trust in yourself and fosters a growth mindset, turning failures into opportunities for development.

    7. Embrace discomfort

    One often overlooked habit for building mental resilience is embracing discomfort. Stepping outside your comfort zone regularly, whether through trying new activities, challenging your physical limits, or tackling tasks you typically avoid, strengthens your mental toughness. By willingly facing discomfort, you train your mind to adapt and thrive in challenging situations. This habit not only builds resilience but also increases your confidence in handling whatever life throws your way. Embracing discomfort becomes a catalyst for personal growth and development.

    The 4 C’s of mental toughness

    1. Confidence: Confidence is the cornerstone of mental toughness. It’s the belief in your ability to succeed, regardless of the obstacles ahead. Confidence comes from past successes, preparation, and a positive mindset. When you’re confident, you’re more likely to take risks, step out of your comfort zone, and persist in the face of adversity. 

    2. Control: Control refers to your ability to manage your emotions and remain composed under pressure. It’s about staying calm and focused, even amid chaos. When you have control, you’re less likely to be overwhelmed by stress or external factors, allowing you to think clearly and make rational decisions. This sense of control enables you to respond effectively to challenges rather than impulsively.

    3. Commitment: Commitment is the dedication to your goals and persistence in seeing them through, no matter what. It’s about being consistent in your efforts, even when motivation wanes, or the going gets tough. Commitment keeps you on track, helping you push through obstacles and stay focused on the long-term vision. 

    4. Challenge: Challenge is the willingness to step out of your comfort zone and see difficult situations as opportunities for growth. Mentally tough individuals view challenges not as threats but as chances to improve and learn. Embracing challenges helps you develop resilience and adaptability, making you more capable of handling future obstacles.

    Bottom line

    Mental toughness is not about being unbreakable; it’s about being adaptable, disciplined, and persistent. It’s something you can develop over time through consistent practice and a positive mindset. The journey to becoming mentally tough is ongoing, but each step you take makes you stronger and more capable of achieving your goals. Building strong habits, celebrating small wins, and embracing the 4 C’s—confidence, control, commitment, and challenge—can cultivate the mental resilience needed to thrive in any situation.

  • Don’t “man up,” seek help

    Don’t “man up,” seek help

    The daily grind in the construction industry often brings a high physical and mental strain. Stress is a natural part of life, but when it becomes overwhelming and constant, it can lead to serious health problems. Unfortunately, many men in construction tend to bottle up their stress, viewing it as a burden they must carry alone. We will discuss the importance of seeking help when mental health issues arise and offer practical ways to manage stress before it becomes too much to handle.

    The dark side of stress

    In small doses, stress is beneficial for the body. It sharpens focus, boosts productivity, and even helps your immune system fight off illness. This is known as acute stress, which is short-term and manageable. However, when stress becomes chronic—lingering for weeks, months, or even years—it can take a significant toll on your body and mind.

    Chronic stress leads to the constant release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. While these hormones are helpful in emergencies, prolonged exposure can wreak havoc on your health. Chronic stress has been linked to serious conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. It can also weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. For men in construction, who often face physically demanding work conditions, the impact of chronic stress can be even more damaging.

    The stress response in men and women

    Men and women experience and respond to stress differently. Men are more likely to engage in a “fight-or-flight” response, meaning they either confront the stressor head-on or try to escape it. This response is deeply rooted in biology and is driven by the release of adrenaline and cortisol.

    On the other hand, women are more likely to engage in what’s known as the “tend-and-befriend” response. This involves nurturing behavior and seeking social support to manage stress. Research suggests that these differences are partly due to hormonal variations. Men have higher levels of testosterone, which fuels aggression and the fight-or-flight response, while women have more oxytocin, which promotes bonding and social interaction.

    These differences can influence how stress is managed. Men might be more inclined to internalize their stress, often viewing it as a challenge to be faced alone. Women may be more open to discussing their feelings and seeking help from others. Recognizing these patterns can help men understand the importance of reaching out for support when stress becomes overwhelming.

    Stress in construction

    The construction industry is one of the most stressful sectors in which to work. Workers often face tight deadlines, long hours, and physically demanding tasks in hazardous environments. The pressure to perform and meet expectations can be intense. Financial stress, job insecurity, and the constant need to stay vigilant on the job site add to the overall burden.

    But stress doesn’t stop when the workday ends. Many men in construction also deal with stress at home, whether from family responsibilities, financial pressures, or personal issues. This constant exposure to stress, both on and off the job, can lead to burnout, physical exhaustion, and mental health struggles if not properly managed.

    The numbers don’t lie

    The statistics on men and mental health are sobering. 

    • The ADAA states that nearly 1 in 10 men experience some form of depression or anxiety, but less than half seek treatment.
    • Nearly 1 million men in Canada experience depression each year, yet many go untreated.
    • On average, approximately 4,000 Canadians take their own life each year; of those suicides, 75% are men.
    • The construction industry has one of the highest suicide rates of any profession, with male construction workers being four times more likely to die by suicide than the general population.

    These numbers highlight the importance of breaking down the stigma around mental health, especially among men in high-stress jobs like construction. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a necessary step toward maintaining overall health and well-being.

    How men can effectively deal with mental health struggles

    Physical activity

    One of the most effective ways to manage stress is through physical activity. Exercise helps to release endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. For construction workers, incorporating additional physical activities that they enjoy—like jogging, swimming, or even just taking a brisk walk—can provide a mental break and help reduce stress.

    Meditation or self-reflection

    Taking a few minutes each day for meditation or self-reflection can help calm the mind and reduce stress. These practices allow you to focus on the present moment, clear your thoughts, and gain perspective on the challenges you’re facing.

    Deep breathing

    Deep breathing exercises are simple yet powerful tools for managing stress. When you feel overwhelmed, taking a few deep breaths can help slow your heart rate, calm your nerves, and bring a sense of peace. Best of all, this technique is easy to practice anywhere.

    Seek quiet

    Finding quiet moments in a noisy and chaotic environment like a construction site can be incredibly beneficial. Taking a few minutes to step away from the noise and chaos allows you to recharge mentally. Whether during a break at work or in a quiet space at home, these moments of solitude can help you reset and manage stress more effectively.

    Turn to a professional

    While self-care practices are important, they may not always be enough. If stress becomes unmanageable or starts affecting your daily life, seeking professional help is crucial. Whether talking to a therapist, counselor, or even your primary care doctor, getting support from a professional can provide the tools and guidance you need to cope with stress and improve your mental health.

    Bottom line

    Stress is an inevitable part of life, especially in high-pressure jobs like construction. While some stress can be beneficial, chronic stress can have serious consequences for both physical and mental health. For men in the construction industry, the pressures of the job, combined with societal expectations to “man up” and deal with stress alone, can make it challenging to seek help.

    But the truth is, no one should have to face stress alone. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength and self-awareness. By recognizing the signs of chronic stress, adopting healthy coping mechanisms, and reaching out for support when needed, men in construction can protect their mental health and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health—both are essential to living well.

  • Depression rates are high in construction—here’s what to look out for

    Depression rates are high in construction—here’s what to look out for

    The construction industry is known for being steeped in macho culture. Unfortunately, it’s also known for high rates of depression and suicide, which means you or your coworkers may be suffering in silence instead of asking for help. You can take action by understanding contributing factors to depression in the construction industry, like stigma, substance abuse, and work-related stressors. Common symptoms of depression include hopelessness, irritability, and changes to sleep and eating habits.

    The state of mental health in construction

    Research from the British Columbia-based Construction Industry Rehabilitation Plan organization shows that 83% of construction workers have experienced a “moderate to severe mental health issue.” Similarly, a Centres for Disease Control and Prevention report shows construction has one of the highest rates of suicide out of all industries. 

    While it’s common to complain to your workplace buddies about a sore back or a wicked hangover, it’s rare to speak openly and honestly about mental health issues. Only 18% of construction workers said they feel comfortable discussing mental health with coworkers. So, while your crew might seem (and say) they’re doing fine, the truth might be a different story.

    Depression and construction workers

    Depression is widespread among those employed in construction. In 2023, almost 18% of American adults reported they were currently experiencing depression, while a 2024 report authored by the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) stated that almost half of the construction workers surveyed had experienced depression in the past or were currently struggling with the issue. 

    Despite depression being one of the most common mental illnesses, construction workers are reluctant to speak about their struggles. Unfortunately, they are also often dealing with several different factors that can increase the risk of depression and other mental health issues.

    Stigma

    While there is widespread stigma about mental health issues in general, the nature of construction work and the fact that almost 94% of workers are male may make this industry more susceptible to it. Intense work environments and the pressure to simply shut up, grind through, and get the work done means that it isn’t always easy for those in construction to ask for help with mental health struggles.     

    Substance abuse

    In addition to industry-leading levels of suicide, the construction sector also struggles with substance abuse. Roughly 16.5% of construction workers report heavy alcohol use, and construction workers had the highest rates of drug overdose death rates of any industry. Abusing drugs and alcohol can increase the risk of several mental health conditions, including depression.

    Working construction isn’t your typical 9-5. Factors like unpredictable hours, job insecurity, physically demanding tasks, extreme weather conditions, working away from home, and increased risk of accidents and injury all take their toll. When compounded over months or years, these unique stressors can add up, chipping away at mental health. 

    Know the signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety

    It’s crucial to recognize the symptoms of depression and other mental health issues like anxiety, especially when you remember that many construction workers won’t explicitly ask for help or admit they’re struggling—even to themselves. Learning the signs is also critical so you can keep an eye on your mental health and know when feeling blue turns into something more serious. 

    Common symptoms of depression:

    • Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
    • Feeling angry, irritable, or frustrated
    • Sleeping too little or too much
    • Feeling lost, empty, worthless, or hopeless
    • Changes in appetite; weight loss or gain

    Common symptoms of anxiety:

    • Feeling restless, tense, or nervous
    • Increased heart rate or breathing
    • Trouble focusing or concentrating
    • A feeling of impending doom
    • Trouble sleeping or eating

    How to take action

    If you think you may be struggling with depression, reaching out for help is the most important thing you can do. Speak to a trusted friend, coworker, or family member and let them know what you’re feeling. 

    If you aren’t comfortable speaking to someone you know, you can contact a counselor through your employer’s employee assistance program (EAP) or dial 9-8-8 from anywhere in the US or Canada to speak with a trained counselor.

    If you think a coworker might be depressed, offer support. Check in with them, ask how they’re doing, and make an effort to connect outside of work hours. You can also play a powerful role in breaking the stigma of mental illness by discussing your own experiences with depression or other challenges and passing on the resources listed above. 

    If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, at risk of self-harm, or may hurt others, please call 9-1-1 immediately.

    Building resilience

    Experiencing depression or other mental health issues like anxiety doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human. Changing the narrative on depression in the construction industry requires the strength and problem-solving skills that construction workers are known for. Be strong enough to stand up, break the stigma, and ask for help when needed

  • Mental resilience: What it is and how to build it for career and personal success

    Mental resilience: What it is and how to build it for career and personal success

    Mental resilience refers to the ability to bounce back from an emotional challenge with mental health intact. It is an essential skill on any job site, as clocking in can be difficult without mental strength. But mental resilience isn’t an inherent skill—it’s learned. You can steadily increase your mental resilience by practicing optimism, eating well, using compassion, and finding an outlet for your frustration.

    7 ways to cultivate mental resilience

    1. Foster connection

    Connecting with others isn’t just fun—it also leads to science-based mental health improvements. Social connections release oxytocin, which reduces stress and calms your mind. And we don’t just gain these benefits when we’re on the receiving end. When we go out of our way to actively support others (learning about them, checking in on them, lifting them), that also stimulates the release of oxytocin. 

    Practice kindness, empathy, and optimism when you try to connect more with others.

    2. Be optimistic

    Certain hardships can make it difficult to focus on the positive, but optimists have a unique reflexive ability to rapidly disengage from unchangeable issues and hardships. Knowing when to cut your losses and redirect your focus is mental resilience in a nutshell. 

    The more you actively practice focusing on the positive, the quicker it will become a default. It’s all about balancing the positive with the realistic, so shift your thinking and watch your mental health improve. 

    3. Find an outlet

    Sometimes, life’s pressures slowly build up until you eventually notice it’s too much to bear. At this point, when you need to let loose, finding a healthy outlet to do that is vital. 

    Everyone’s go-to outlet for stress relief looks different. You might meditate, listen to loud music, hit the gym, or vent in your journal. What they all have in common is that they all provide mental distraction, reduce stress hormones, and even sometimes relieve muscle tension. 

    4. Eat well

    Many people forget that how you fuel your body can impact your mental state. By choosing varied, nutrient-packed meals, you’ll have more physical energy throughout the day—and you may also notice increased mental clarity. 

    Serotonin, aka the “happiness hormone,” is produced primarily in the gut. When our gut microbiome is supported with nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, proteins, nuts and seeds, and legumes, your body has the building blocks to produce feel-good hormones.

    These nutrient-packed foods support our mental health via the gut-brain axis. Specific probiotic strains can also produce compounds that support stress reduction and mental health.

    Pro tip: Tryptohan-rich foods like tofu, edamame, fish and seafood, poultry, quinoa, and oats are some of the best foods to support serotonin production.

    5. Practice compassion 

    Practicing compassion is perhaps the simplest thing on our list, but it’s not just an outwardly kind thing to do—it’s also a way to treat your brain kindly. 

    When faced with difficult situations, fear and anxiety present themselves, but the urge to care for others does, too. Knowing you’re offering support to someone else gives you the same conflict-resolution feeling of reassurance as when you are supported. 

    6. Move your body

    Exercise is a simple way to trigger the release of endorphins, which can immediately boost your mood. However, moving your body daily can also have positive long-term mental benefits.

    Consistent exercise supports the production of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). This reduces oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain while increasing neurogenesis (the formation of new neurons in the brain). Going back to our earlier point about happiness starting with the gut, exercising also helps with gut balance and regularity. 

    The beauty is that you don’t have to start an intense workout routine—even a daily brisk walk (outside of movement at your job) is enough to promote mental health benefits. 

    7. Utilize mental health counseling

    If you need additional mental and resilience support, direct counseling might be the right option for you. 

    Some options include talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, behavioral activation, and brain stimulation therapy, but others may offer more benefits. 

    Talking with a professional counselor can help determine which therapy will improve your mental health and resilience. 

    Why mental resilience matters

    Nobody wants to get stuck in a cycle of grief, pain, or mental anguish. It can interfere with your productivity, relationship-forming, and overall well-being. And for trade workers, being stuck in a mentally tough place can also be dangerous. Many elements of the job site require you to be aware and focused to prevent accidents and injuries. 

    Mental resilience also matters because your overall mental health is essential. Not taking care of your mental state is just as bad as neglecting your physical health, and a crisis could be dire. 

    Bottom line

    Physical toughness is often praised in the trades, but mental toughness is overlooked. Mental resilience is critical since you can’t brute-force yourself out of every difficult situation. 

    By following our simple tips and remembering to break down the internal mental health stigma, you’ll be sure to harness the resilience to face anything on the job. 
    For more tips, news, and stories on everything in the trades, subscribe to our weekly newsletter and follow us on social media.

  • Emotional intelligence: Life’s best-kept cheat code for successful AEC professionals

    Emotional intelligence: Life’s best-kept cheat code for successful AEC professionals

    You may have heard people being described as book smart or street smart, but another type of intelligence may matter just as much as your IQ, if not more. Emotional intelligence (sometimes called EQ) affects how well you understand yourself and how effectively you interact with the people around you. When you’re on the job site, having a high EQ can mean fewer conflicts with coworkers, more opportunities for advancement, and projects that run smoothly and efficiently. The best part is that emotional intelligence is a skill you can work to improve, just like any other.   

    What is emotional intelligence?

    Simply put, emotional intelligence is the ability to understand and manage your emotions and recognize and understand the emotions of others. Wondering where you stand? People with low EQ tend to be easily upset, frequently feel overwhelmed by emotions, struggle to be assertive, and often feel misunderstood. On the other hand, people with high EQ can stay calm (even during high-pressure situations), handle difficult people diplomatically and tactfully, and help influence people to strive for a common goal.   

    While some people may seem naturally emotionally intelligent, anyone can improve their EQ by working on the skills and behaviors involved.  

    4 components of emotional intelligence

    Self-management involves regulating your emotions, especially in high-pressure environments. Dealing with intense circumstances without blowing up or shutting down is a key component of self-management, as is the ability to make decisions in stressful situations.

    Note that self-management doesn’t mean ignoring or detaching from your feelings. Even those with strong self-management skills still sometimes feel sad, angry, and frustrated. Developing this aspect of emotional intelligence allows you to recognize your feelings, manage your emotions proactively, and express them appropriately without reacting impulsively or losing control.  

    Self-awareness describes the ability to look inward and understand your strengths, weaknesses, and motivations. It also involves having a clear understanding of how others perceive you and why. 

    Self-awareness is a crucial component of emotional intelligence. If you don’t understand your own emotions or the motivations behind your behavior, it can be hard to take responsibility, recognize patterns in your life (good and bad), and form healthy connections with others. Research from Organizational Psychologist Tasha Eurich shows that while 95% of people think they are self-aware, only 10-15% are. 

    This can have serious side effects on the job site. Data shows that workplace teams with low self-awareness make worse decisions, are less coordinated, and are less able to manage conflict. 

    Social awareness is similar to self-awareness, but instead of understanding what you feel, you can understand how others think, feel, and act. Someone with high social awareness skills might also be called empathetic because they can put themselves in someone else’s shoes and understand their perspective, even if they disagree. 

    Reading social cues is also a key component of social awareness. It helps you understand when someone is feeling uncomfortable, bored, or leaving something unsaid. 

    Relationship management includes the ability to communicate effectively, maintain good relationships, healthily resolve conflict, and cooperate in teams. Working out your differences with others is a particularly useful tool on the job because studies have shown that every unaddressed conflict wastes around eight hours of work time, and every minute counts when that project deadline is approaching.

    Why emotional intelligence matters

    Unless you live alone in the woods, your life will involve relationships with people: coworkers and other trades on the construction site, friends, family, partners at home, and even customer service personnel when you’re trying to resolve an issue. Understanding your emotions and empathizing with the feelings of others will improve your life in several different ways, some of which may surprise you.   

    Physical health

    Feelings aren’t just in your head; they affect your body, too. Anxiety can make it impossible to eat, stress can raise your blood pressure, and chronic anger can impair your heart’s ability to function, increasing your risk of heart disease. 

    Building emotional intelligence means regulating challenging emotions rather than flying off the handle, reducing stress, and protecting your heart. Developing your EQ also helps you maintain relationships, which not only gives you a full life but a long one, too. Numerous studies show that close relationships are associated with a decreased risk of all-cause mortality. 

    Daily performance 

    Developing emotional intelligence will help you do much more than just understand your feelings. It can help you perform better in virtually every part of your day. Research shows that emotional intelligence can help you think critically, make good decisions, collaborate with others, and cope with stress. 

    Understanding yourself and others means moving through life with insight and influence—it’s life’s ultimate cheat code.

    Social relationships 

    Being self-aware, socially aware, empathetic, and great at communicating can mean the difference between a life filled with strong relationships and one filled with endless conflict. Having strong, positive relationships is correlated with lower levels of anxiety and depression and higher self-esteem. 

    Building emotional intelligence

    There are several ways to boost your EQ and take advantage of all the benefits of high emotional intelligence. Like strengthening your muscles, becoming more emotionally intelligent will take practice and repetition, but the results are well worth it.   

    Self-awareness

    To increase your self-awareness, try practices like meditation and journaling. A simple ten-minute guided meditation each morning or a few minutes spent recording your thoughts and feelings at the end of the day can help you better tune into your inner landscape and understand yourself.

    Empathy

    Building empathy is an effective way to become more emotionally intelligent. Practice putting yourself in someone else’s shoes—anyone, from your surly foreman to the smiley woman who runs the coffee truck. Try to imagine what their life experiences, perspectives, feelings, and desires might be. Studies also show that reading fiction can help you become more empathetic by allowing yourself to inhabit someone else’s life story, so if all else fails, pick up a good book!

    Feedback

    It can be challenging to accurately evaluate your EQ and identify areas for improvement. Instead, ask a trusted friend for feedback about your blind spots—specifically active listening, social skills, and social awareness. What are you already great at, and what can you work on? Acknowledging your limitations and taking accountability for areas where you might be falling short is a great way to improve your emotional intelligence.

    EQ for life

    Feelings have long been dismissed as flimsy, fleeting things. But research doesn’t lie—being adept at identifying and managing your feelings can make you decisive, level-headed, calm, and happy. Noticing the emotions of people around you helps you become a good friend, a great partner, and a promising prospect for promotions. Strengthening your EQ through empathy practice, mindfulness, reading, and soliciting feedback is worth the investment.

  • 10 signs you might need a mental health day

    10 signs you might need a mental health day

    Maintaining mental health is important in any profession, but it’s especially important for those working in demanding and physically exhausting jobs like construction. Long hours, intense physical labor, and the constant pressure to meet deadlines can take a serious toll on your mind and body. If you constantly feel overwhelmed, experience frequent headaches or migraines, or have difficulty concentrating at work, it might be time to take a mental health day. Recognizing when you need to take a step back and focus on your well-being is key to avoiding burnout and staying productive in the long run. 

    10 signs you might need a mental health day

    1. Headaches or migraines

    Frequent headaches or migraines can be a sign that you’re under too much pressure. Stress is a common trigger for tension headaches and migraines, and when your mind is constantly racing, your body may respond with physical pain. If you find yourself reaching for painkillers more often than usual, chances are a day or two off work would do you some good.

    2. You’re overwhelmed by your normal daily tasks

    If tasks that you usually handle with ease start feeling insurmountable, it might be time to step back. When organizing tools, following routine procedures, or managing your daily to-do list becomes stressful and exhausting, your body and mind are likely telling you that you need a break. It’s normal to have off days, but if this feeling persists, it could be a sign that you need to recharge.

    3. Digestive issues

    Your gut is often referred to as the body’s second brain because it’s closely connected to your mental health. If you’re experiencing frequent stomach aches, nausea, or other digestive issues, it could be a physical manifestation of stress and anxiety. These symptoms are your body’s way of signaling that something is off, and taking a mental health day can help alleviate these discomforts.

    4. Irritability

    Do you find yourself snapping at coworkers or becoming easily frustrated over minor issues? Irritability is a common sign of mental fatigue, and it can strain your relationships at work and at home. When small annoyances start to feel like major problems, it’s a clear indication that you need to step back.

    5. Reduced performance

    If you notice a decline in the quality of your work, it’s time to take a mental health day. Making more mistakes than usual, struggling to meet expectations, or simply not caring as much about the outcome of your projects are all signs that you’re mentally drained. In the construction industry, these little mistakes could end up being dangerous or costly. A day off can help you return to work with renewed focus and energy.

    6. Difficulty concentrating

    When you’re mentally exhausted, concentrating on tasks can feel nearly impossible. You might find yourself losing track of instructions, having trouble staying engaged during meetings, or zoning out while operating machinery. Difficulty concentrating is not only a sign that you need a break but also a potential safety hazard in a construction environment. Taking time off to rest your mind can improve your focus and help you avoid accidents on the job.

    7. Poor sleep

    Sleep is essential for mental and physical health, but stress can make it difficult to get the rest you need. Believe it or not, sometimes, the more exhausted you are, the harder it is to get a decent sleep. If you’re experiencing trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or not feeling rested after sleep, it’s a sign that your body is struggling to cope with stress. Taking a mental health day allows you to catch up on some much-needed sleep and reset your body’s natural rhythms. And if you’re still struggling to sleep properly, consider sleep supplements.

    8. Increased use of unhealthy coping mechanisms

    Turning to excessive caffeine, alcohol, or other substances to get through the day is a clear sign that your body and mind are seeking relief from stress. While these coping mechanisms might provide temporary comfort, they can lead to long-term health problems if not addressed. Taking a mental health day allows you to break these habits and find healthier ways to manage stress.

    9. Physical exhaustion beyond normal tiredness

    Construction work is physically demanding, so it’s normal to feel tired at the end of the day. However, if you’re feeling constantly drained, even after a full night’s sleep, it might be time to take a mental health day. Chronic exhaustion can lead to burnout, which not only affects your work performance but also your overall well-being.

    10. Decreased motivation and enthusiasm

    Losing interest in work projects you once enjoyed or lacking the drive to start new tasks can be a sign that you’re mentally and emotionally exhausted. When motivation and enthusiasm are low, it’s difficult to stay engaged and productive. Taking a mental health day allows you to step back, reflect, and rediscover your passion for the job.

    Benefits of taking a mental health day

    Improved productivity

    It might seem counterintuitive, but taking time off can actually make you more productive. When you’re well-rested and mentally refreshed, you’re better equipped to tackle tasks efficiently and with greater focus. A mental health day can help you return to work with a clear mind, ready to perform at your best.

    Reduced stress and anxiety

    One of the most immediate benefits of taking a mental health day is reducing stress and anxiety. By stepping away from work and giving yourself permission to relax, you can lower your cortisol levels and reset your nervous system. This makes you feel better in the moment and helps you manage stress more effectively in the long run.

    Prevention of job burnout

    Burnout is a serious issue in high-pressure jobs like construction. It’s characterized by emotional exhaustion, detachment from work, and a sense of reduced accomplishment. Taking regular mental health days can prevent burnout by allowing you to rest and recharge before you reach the point of complete exhaustion. This proactive approach helps you maintain a healthy work-life balance and keeps you engaged in your job.

    Enhanced physical health

    Mental and physical health are closely connected. When you reduce stress through mental health days, you also alleviate physical symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, and digestive issues. Over time, this can lead to better overall health, fewer sick days, and a more fulfilling career.

    Better workplace relationships

    When you’re mentally and emotionally balanced, you’re more likely to have positive interactions with your coworkers. Taking time off to recharge can improve your mood, making you more patient, understanding, and cooperative. This can enhance your work relationships and contribute to a more pleasant and productive work environment.

    Tips for making mental health days a regular practice

    Acknowledging the challenges of taking time off in the construction industry is important. Tight deadlines, physical demands, and a fast-paced work environment can make it difficult to prioritize mental health. However, incorporating regular mental health days into your routine is essential for long-term success and well-being.

    Here’s how you can do that.

    Communicate your needs

    Open and honest communication with your supervisors is key. Let them know how important mental health days are to your overall performance and well-being. Explain that taking time off when needed can benefit the company by reducing absenteeism, improving productivity, and preventing accidents on the job.

    Be flexible

    In an industry where taking a full day off isn’t always feasible, consider alternative ways to practice self-care. This could include scheduling more short breaks throughout the day, taking a half-day when possible, or using a long weekend to rest and recharge. Flexibility is key to finding a balance between meeting work demands and taking care of your mental health.

    Incorporate self-care practices

    In addition to taking mental health days, make self-care a part of your daily routine. This could include simple practices like deep breathing exercises, massage, stretching, or taking a few moments to relax during your breaks. Engaging in activities you enjoy outside of work, such as hobbies or spending time with loved ones, can also help you maintain a healthy work-life balance.

    Plan ahead

    If you know that a particularly stressful period is coming up, plan your mental health day in advance. Scheduling time off during less busy periods or around project timelines can make it easier to get approval from your supervisors. Planning ahead also allows you to arrange coverage for your responsibilities, ensuring that work continues smoothly in your absence.

    Use available resources

    Many construction companies offer employee assistance programs (EAPs), counseling services, or wellness initiatives. Take advantage of these resources to support your mental health. Whether you talk to a counselor, attend a stress management workshop, or participate in a wellness program, these resources can provide valuable support and help you stay mentally and physically healthy.

    Reach out to a professional when needed

    Sometimes, despite your best efforts, stress, anxiety, or depression can persist. If you’re struggling to manage your mental health on your own, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide personalized guidance, support, and strategies to help you navigate your challenges and maintain your well-being. 

    Whether it’s through therapy, counseling, or medication, reaching out to a professional is a proactive step toward maintaining your mental and physical health in a demanding work environment.

    Bottom line

    Taking care of your mental health is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Recognizing the signs that you need a mental health day, understanding the benefits of taking time off, and making mental health a regular practice ensures that you can continue to perform at your best. By prioritizing your well-being, you not only improve your own quality of life but also contribute to a safer, more productive, and more positive work environment for everyone.

  • WSIB expands mental health coverage for employees

    WSIB expands mental health coverage for employees

    The Ontario-based Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) recently increased its mental health coverage in 2023 from $3,000 to $5,000 while expanding its practitioners to include psychologists, marriage and family therapists, and psychoanalysts. In January, mental health coverage became unlimited for its employees and their dependents.

    WSIB also recently increased mental health coverage in its organization by making it unlimited for its employees and their dependents. 

    These efforts highlight a growing need among Canada’s population of about 39 million for more healthcare for mental well-being. WSIB seems to be leading the way in this regard, at least in Canada, by offering such coverage to roughly one-eighth of the nation’s citizens who have coverage with the group.

    WSIB provides wage-loss benefits, medical coverage, and support to workers injured on the job. It also provides no-fault collective liability insurance and health and safety information access. WSIB serves over five million workers in more than 300,000 workplaces in Ontario.

    Its leaders say that employee well-being is crucial at WSIB.

    “When we look at the claims we’re dealing with every day in Ontario, mental-health-related claims are growing faster than any other type of claim,” said Anna Filice, WSIB chief people officer. “The effects tend to linger and the costs to employees’ lives once they enter into the [health-care] system are great.”

    A report by the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association said that Canadian insurers processed about $600 million in mental health claims in 2021, up 75% from 2019.

    Filice said the expanded coverage in WSIB reflects its vision. 

    “Our employer value proposition is based around taking care of the whole person. The decision to make mental health coverage unlimited aligns with our shared values and our broader wellness strategy. We thought this was a meaningful way to demonstrate our commitment to our employees,” Filice said. “We didn’t want to put a ceiling on these types of benefits because we didn’t want anyone running into barriers accessing services they need for their recovery.”

    According to a 2023 survey by TELUS Health, 32% of Canadian employees say cost is the biggest obstacle in getting mental health support.

    The TELUS Mental Health Index recently (October 2023) stated that workers who have work conflicts lose an average of 55 work days annually. TELUS found that among Canadian workers, 26% say better support by their employer for their well-being is more important than a pay raise.

    “The negative impacts of stress… have a ripple effect throughout an organization, impacting every level,” said Juggy Sihota, Chief Growth Officer for TELUS Health. “The well-being of workers and the success of the business are inherently connected. By prioritizing investments in tools, processes and comprehensive benefits plans that foster a psychologically safe and supportive work environment, employers can cultivate a highly engaged and productive workforce that drives business outcomes.”

    Many traditional benefits plans only cover psychology or social work and reimburse as little as $300 to $500 in such expenses annually.

    According to Mercer Canada’s 2022 People Risk Survey, a third of disability claims under Canadian employer-sponsored benefits plans in 2022 were due to mental health reasons. About 55% of employers expect health and safety risks to impact their businesses in the next three years. Workforce exhaustion exacerbates mental health issues among workers.

  • Construction workers and addiction

    Construction workers and addiction

    Construction work is often dangerous and performed in hazardous conditions that require a worker’s constant attention. Yet, the industry tops the charts with some of the highest rates of substance abuse of any industry. Annually, hundreds of construction workers experience overdoses, while thousands more struggle with addiction daily. Local and federal officials are addressing the problem, but contractors and co-workers can do their part through acknowledgment and support.

    Quick look

    • Substance abuse rates are higher in the construction industry due to work-related physical disorders, stress and mental health issues, and the industry’s “macho” culture
    • Data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHA) suggests that approximately 15% of construction workers struggle with substance abuse
    • Alcohol abuse rates in the construction industry are nearly double that of the general population
    • Construction workers have the highest mortality rates for drug overdose deaths and prescription opioid-related overdose deaths of any industry
    • To help combat addiction, employers must implement wellness programs and offer support resources

    Culture and work conditions contribute to addiction

    Many factors contribute to construction workers having a significantly higher rate of substance abuse than the general public. Some of these include: 

    • Cultural factors bound to their work
    • Common work-related physical maladies
    • Work-born stress and associated mental health problems
    • The stiff-upper-lip mindset (also known as the macho culture)

    A macho attitude is not specific to any ethnic group in construction but rather part of the culture. Construction workers like to view themselves as tough because they are, and perhaps there’s nothing wrong with this can-do view in and of itself. Maybe it is essential.

    However, a go-it-alone approach among these workers can lead to problems like drug and alcohol abuse. 

    People with mental health issues tend to self-medicate with illegal drugs or excessive drinking rather than seek help through counseling—it’s an ‘easier’ way out that doesn’t involve being vulnerable. The national opioid crisis resulting from the overprescription of opioids has led to a two-fold addiction of workers to pills and heroin (which some opioid users progress to in their addictions or use to complement it).

    The figures on addiction in construction are staggering. Maybe it shouldn’t be surprising, given the stress of working in the industry. Still, more needs to be done to help workers and contractors.

    Scope of the substance abuse problem

    Working construction is stressful, in part, due to the physical toll it takes on the body, but also the danger of the tasks, the noise and noxious fumes, the pressure of meeting deadlines, the often-seasonal nature of the work (which leaves many out of employment and scratching for a living), and other factors. These stresses may be at least partly responsible for the higher prevalence of substance use in the sector, which is about double the national average.

    Construction workers, most of whom are blue-collar workers, are twice as likely to abuse drugs as the national average for all adult workers. While 8.6% of the general worker population struggles with substance abuse, at least 15% of construction workers do, according to SAMHA’s National Survey on Drug Use.

    Here are more stats to hammer home the scope of the problem. Among other industries in the U.S., construction ranks:

    • 3rd in illicit drug use — 12.95%
    • 2nd in heavy drinking — 16.02%
    • 2nd in substance abuse disorder — 16.07%
    • 1st in marijuana use — 60.33%
    • 1st in heroin use — 4.42%
    • 1st in pain reliever/opioid abuse — 22.63%

    Substance use in the industry has reached a level that some local officials have decided to address it.

    In late 2023, New York City officials began to tour construction sites across the city to educate workers on the dangers of opioid abuse and other drug addictions and the particular risks they pose in the construction field. This effort began after statistics revealed more than 250 workers died of overdoses each year in New York City.

    However, a worker doesn’t need to be in a big city for this affliction to hurt them. It’s a global problem in the construction industry.

    Alcohol abuse is rampant

    Consuming alcohol in the male-dominated industry is part of the cultural fabric—it’s not uncommon for workers to grab a beer after a long day. Admittedly, there are a lot of hard drinkers in this sector, with 12% having an alcohol use disorder compared to 7.5% of adults nationally, according to the SAMHA study.

    According to the report, 14.3% of construction workers reported being diagnosed with a substance use disorder within the past year—1.5 times the national average. Their reported rates of overdrinking are similar, with 12% saying they have an alcohol use disorder compared to 7.5% of adults nationally.

    The male-dominated construction industry’s macho culture can lead some to the work-hard-play-hard mentality, which too often naturally comes with over-drink and drug use. According to the SAMHA report, 16.5% of construction workers reported heavy alcohol consumption within the past month—that’s almost twice the average of workers surveyed.

    But here’s where things get tricky: most people aren’t honest about the extent of the problem, especially when it comes to highly personal matters like substance use. While 11.6% of construction workers reported illegal drug use within the past month and 2.3% reported having a marijuana use disorder, rates are likely higher.

    Opioid addiction is pervasive

    About 1.3% of construction workers have an opioid use disorder, which is nearly twice the national average for adults. Opioid addictions often result from a patient’s dependence on a drug first prescribed by a doctor for a physical disorder, such as a severe work-related injury. Because opioids are highly addictive, it’s easy for people who were never addicts to become addicted. 

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says construction has the highest mortality rates for drug overdose deaths and prescription opioid overdose deaths of any industry. The CDC report on overdose deaths by occupation found 162 overdose deaths per 100,000 construction workers in 2020.

    With musculoskeletal problems and other physical injuries common in the industry, overprescription of painkillers is a serious issue exacerbating the problem.

    “The industry mirrors demographics vulnerable to addiction: A majority of construction workers are men, who are more likely than women to die of overdoses overall,” the CDC report stated. “Hispanic people are overrepresented in the construction industry and have a rising overdose mortality rate overall.”

    Nearly three-quarters of injured construction workers were prescribed a narcotic painkiller in 2016, according to American Addiction Centers. “Opioids account for 20% of the total spending on prescription drugs in the construction industry, a higher amount than any other industry, according to a report by CNA Financial,” AAC says on its website.

    Construction overdose deaths top all industries

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, construction workers have the highest mortality rates for drug overdose deaths and prescription opioid-related overdose deaths—they are seven times more likely to die of an opioid overdose than workers in other industries. 

    Construction workers account for a quarter of fatal opioid overdoses and have the highest proportion of heroin-related overdose deaths of any industry.

    A study on drug use by New York University found that compared to all other professions, construction workers are most likely to use heroin or cocaine. The industry had the highest rate of abusing prescription opioids (3.4% versus 2%) and the highest rate of cocaine use (1.8% versus 0.8%).

    Marijuana use is very high

    Construction workers also have the second highest rate of marijuana use among all types of workers, just behind service jobs workers—12.3% versus 12.4%, compared with 7.5% in non-construction occupations.

    The implications of drug-impaired or drunk construction workers—even boots-on-ground laborers not working with heavy machinery—are troubling. And the fact that it happens daily on construction sites across the country is far more disturbing.

    While there is no statistical data showing how many job site accidents or incidents are due to intoxicated workers, it’s safe to assume that several are, to some degree.

    Spotting signs of substance abuse

    There’s no legal definition of what impairment or being under the influence of marijuana is, and people hide signs of impairment if they are at work. But signs of drug or alcohol impairment while on the job can include:

    • Changes in speech and demeanor
    • Impaired agility and coordination
    • Irrational behavior
    • Carelessness when operating equipment or machinery
    • Disregarding the safety of others
    • Having an accident resulting in heavy damage to equipment or property

    Some signs of impairment may not mean the person is impaired but rather that they have a physical ailment, and if so, the law protects them. Because of this and due to the possibility of a wrongful punitive action occurring because of a misjudgment that a worker is impaired, it’s best to set up parameters by which employees know performance expectations and through which they know that certain appearances and behaviors might raise alarm bells regarding their possible on-site impairment.

    Such parameters and indicators that couple make employees subject to extra substance abuse scrutiny (like an on-the-spot drug test) by their employer might include:

    • Seeming impaired at work, such as smelling like alcohol or drugs, being glassy-eyed, walking unsteadily, having slurred speech, or lacking coordination
    • Unsafe work resulting in an accident
    • Failing a drug test

    Having written expectations and consequences is a necessary part of keeping employees safe. Employers must encourage wellness among workers in every respect—physical, emotional, and psychological. 

    Employers must implement wellness programs that offer workers a safe, nonjudgmental space to express their feelings and receive help and support when needed without fear of losing their jobs. 

    Workers should be encouraged to look out for their co-workers who may need support with addiction, to know the possible signs, and how to offer them help when needed. Employers should also include addiction treatment in the company’s health care benefits when possible.

    Safety is the priority

    From start to finish, trying to do the right thing for workers who are struggling with addiction is about safety—of the worker, co-workers, and the company as a whole.

    A healthy worker is a safer worker, and addicted workers are neither healthy nor safe. 

    Managers and employers should remember to be compassionate and practice empathy when dealing with construction workers compromising safety on a worksite. The person being reprimanded is a fellow worker and a human being, likely hurting physically and emotionally. They need your help and support.

  • 10 steps construction companies can take to save lives

    10 steps construction companies can take to save lives

    September is Suicide Prevention Month, and trade workers are more at risk for substance abuse, mental health issues, and suicide than any other industry. While some of the onus is on employees, employers play a crucial role in preventing suicide. Bold leadership, promoting mental health resources and awareness, and screening for substance abuse and mental health problems are some strategies employers can take to help combat mental health issues and reduce suicide rates.

    In this article, we’ll break down ten critical steps companies can take to support their teams before it’s too late. 

    Why suicide prevention is important in construction

    Discussions of mental health and well-being in the workplace have historically been taboo. While there is a positive shift toward more open conversation around mental health, the construction industry is slow to catch on. 

    Workers in trades lack access to mental health resources at an alarming rate. A 2020 survey by the National Academy of Engineering (NAE) shows that 83% of construction workers have experienced a mental health issue. Because the industry is so male-dominated, it still reflects outdated gender roles and conventions around masculinity. 

    Physically strenuous jobs make these men “tough,” and in the same breath, mental health issues are still seen as “weak,” making it a challenge to make strides in suicide prevention in the industry. Workers feel like they can’t ask for help; if they do, it may fall on deaf ears. Sadly, the environment these ideals have cultivated has led to distress and alarmingly high suicide rates. 

    To help combat the issue from the root, companies can take a three-pronged approach to improvement set forth by the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA). The tactics are divided into early, mid, and late.

    • Early tactics: What preventative measures can workplaces take to stop mental health issues from surfacing? 
    • Mid tactics: How can employers and colleagues identify people who might be currently struggling in the early stages of a substance abuse or mental health problem? 
    • Late tactics: How can companies respond effectively to a crisis if it occurs? 

    Early tactics

    Here are some measures to be implemented on your job site to prevent future mental health crises. 

    Be bold leaders

    Nominate champions internally who can confidently promote suicide prevention and mental health. 

    These leaders should acknowledge that some employees experience complex life changes, mental conditions, and substance abuse challenges. They should also assess their internal readiness by hosting a leadership roundtable to identify best practices and how to keep an open dialogue going. 

    Another action would be to allocate funding and resources for marketing, training, mental health services, and program evaluation. 

    But perhaps more importantly, leaders should act as role models by sharing personal stories and obstacles to work to dismantle the mental health stigma.

    Promote mental health education and awareness

    We naturally fear the unknown. By clearly and confidently promoting mental health education and awareness, we can replace these feelings of fear with reassurance. 

    To ensure proper promotion and education of mental health, start with these resources:  

    • Offer mental health first aid
    • Set up talks on psychological first aid
    • Post the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on your safety board
    • Organize a trip to a local mental health center or addiction recovery center
    • Host a lunch and learn about mental health wellness  

    Build a caring culture and safe work environment

    Much like precautions for physical safety, regulations must also be established for mental health.

    Starting is as easy as acknowledging awareness campaigns like World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10th), Construction Suicide Prevention Week (September 9-13) and Mental Health Awareness Month (May). Because mental health is a broad topic, it’s easy to tie to an awareness theme in a quarterly campaign, like “You can’t keep your mental health together with a staple gun,” so it stays interwoven in company culture. 

    Provide training on practical coping skills 

    Adding mental health and wellness workshops to yearly safety training, onboarding, orientation, and executive coaching effectively provides hands-on support. 

    Workshop themes could include positive relationship building, conflict resolution, stress management, responsible drinking, pain reduction, mindfulness, and meditation. 

    Mid tactics

    Support and education don’t stop at prevention. These mid-tactics should be implemented to help workers currently struggling. 

    Begin screening for substance abuse and mental health conditions

    Mental health issues are more treatable when caught early. Much like screening for physical ailments, mental health and substance misuse screenings should be a regular, standard practice. 

    Health information should remain private, but encouraging and promoting regular evaluation could help employees tremendously. Screening reminders could be integrated with the regular workflow by encouraging the Man Therapy 20-Point Head Inspection, suggesting they take a quick, anonymous mental health assessment, or encouraging them to participate in National Depression Screening Day. 

    Promote mental health services like Employee Assistance Programs

    Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are crucial in the workplace. Some of the services EAPs offer include “fitness for duty” evaluations, counseling, incident management, and reintegration for employees on leave for a mental health issue. 

    EAP programs should be promoted during new employee onboarding and through posters and brochures in the workplace. Company benefit announcements or reminders should also encourage the use of EAP services. You could also bring in representatives from EAPs to give a recurring information session. 

    Train managers and employees to navigate difficult conversations

    Employees can turn to each other for support once your workplace fosters a culture of openness and respect around mental health. When they do, the receiving party must be well-trained to converse. 

    Training should be integrated into leadership and management coaching and regular training for employees, much like CPR. Participants should be confident with active listening, referring to qualified resources, and asking difficult questions like “Are you having thoughts about suicide?” 

    The aim is for leadership and employees to step in when someone is showing signs of mental health decline before things escalate. Organizations could provide general awareness training or search for local evidence-based training programs to host a workshop. 

    Late tactics

    Late tactics should be used when someone is in a crisis or to assist after one has occurred. 

    Handle mental health crises in the workplace 

    In the event of an active mental health crisis, there are a few things others can do to help. 

    First, review your current policies on mental health. What procedures should be followed when a worker has a crisis that could require medical leave? What accommodations are required, and when and how will they be reintegrated into the workplace?

    Then, collaborate with the employee in need to create a safety plan. This plan should first and foremost determine the level of confidentiality and identify who in the organization is included in the support team. Ask what the employee thinks would be helpful and offer the resources that best support them. 

    Reduce the access the employee has to lethal means if there’s a risk of suicide. Encourage the employee to restrict access to pills and guns, and do not allow the employee to operate from a significantly elevated surface. 

    Bring awareness to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

    Today, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL) is one of the most effective workplace resources, representing a vast network of lifelines. 

    With NSPL, a worker in a crisis or assisting in a crisis can call for help. This is an extremely effective option if an employee needs an immediate resource but feels shame or wants to maintain confidentiality. 

    Employees can call toll-free at 1-800-273-8255 or call/text 9-8-8 in Canada, and a counselor will assist them with devising a plan to cope and making decisions to avoid and de-escalate a crisis. Callers are often in a life-threatening scenario and need immediate help. The hotline can take aggressive measures like tracing locations and alerting medical personnel. 

    The NSPL removes the financial, time, and travel barriers, making it one of the most accessible resources for people in a crisis. They also offer a chat function at suicidepreventionlifeline.org. 

    Following a suicide death, provide compassionate grief and trauma support

    Preparing for and preventing mental health crises is complex, and navigating grief in the workplace after a suicide can be just as hard. 

    In these scenarios, review the resources you offer in the workplace and work to provide counseling and trauma support to employees. Your management team should have training in crisis support, and you should work to put a plan in place to coach employees on how to communicate in the event of a suicide safely. 

    Bottom line

    Change doesn’t happen overnight; unfortunately, changing workplace culture to embrace mental health awareness won’t happen tomorrow. However, by following these actionable steps, employers and employees can become more aware of mental health issues and the steps needed to save lives in the future. 

    Working in construction, warehousing, farming, or any other trade comes with a lot of pride, but it also casts a shadow over anything perceived as “weakness.” Don’t let the mental health stigma seep into your workplace culture. It could cause ridicule, harm, or something much worse.