Navigating Mental Health in Skilled Trade and Industrial Occupations
Explore ways to support the mental health of skilled trade and industrial professionals at work.
Video
Description
Mental health is a critical component of overall health and well-being. Workplaces that prioritize mental health-friendly policies and practices can expect a number of benefits. By supporting a mental health-friendly organizational culture, employers demonstrate that they value their workers. The results are higher retention and a greater sense of belonging for all employees.
Creating a mental health-friendly organizational culture is particularly important in skilled trade and industrial occupations. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the suicide rate of industrial workers has increased by 40% over the last two decades. Workers engaged in physically demanding labor such as construction, mining, and auto repair are particularly vulnerable, with the construction industry having the second highest suicide rate in the U.S. Workers in these fields still face considerable stigma regarding mental health conditions. Thus, they are less likely to seek professional help because of traditional ideas about self-reliance and strength.
Many employers understand the importance of supporting their employees’ mental health, but are not sure where to start. In this webinar, experts will explore the challenges that skilled trade and industrial professionals face and learn ways to support their well-being. Whether you work in such a role, or are looking to learn more about promoting mental health at work, this webinar will be informative and engaging. Topics include:
- Challenges of supporting mental health and wellness in skilled trade and industrial professions
- Tactics to combat mental health stereotypes and stigmas
- Strategies to change the organization’s culture to encourage connection and support
- Ways to encourage and normalize conversations between employees and supervisors about mental health
- Examples of effective workplace mental health programs implemented by employers in skilled trade professions
Presenters
- Chris Trahan Cain, CIH: Executive Director, CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training; Safety and Health Director, North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU)
- JocCole “JC” Burton, LEED AP BD+C: President and CEO, Maven Construction; Founder and CEO, SRGE, Construction Equity Accelerator
- Bo Cooper, CSP: Safety Director, Alberici Constructors, Inc.
Date
Wednesday, May 17, 2023
02:00 PM - 03:00 PM Eastern
Webinar Materials
EARN Resources
Presenter Resources
- CPWR: Opioids and Mental Health Presentation Slides (PDF)
- CPWR: Mental Health & Addiction Resources
- Laborers' Health & Safety Fund of North America: Improving Safety & Health for Women in Construction
- American Society of Safety Professionals: How to Promote Mental Well-Being for Black Americans on Your Work Site
- Forefront Suicide Prevention Center: Suicide Prevention Training for Construction Workers