BROTHERS AND SISTERS: WE CAN STOP SUICIDE
Our industry is experiencing the highest rates of suicide in the nation.
IT IS TIME WE DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT.
Having the support of other carpenters is one of the best resources we can have, so we are investing in suicide prevention training for Brother and Sister leaders. As a union, we can break the stigma around suicide and make mental health a priority.
SUICIDE PREVENTION TRAINING
We train Union Carpenter to recognize signs of personal crisis and refer to proper care. Our union can make a difference.
SEE THIS HARD HAT STICKER ON YOUR JOB SITE? This carpenter has the resources to help.
WANT TO LEARN MORE? Contact us at LetsTalk@nwcarpenters.org
WHY ARE CONSTRUCTION WORKERS AT HIGHEST RISK?
- Our work is often isolating
- The economy dictates our employment
- Sometimes we have to sacrifice seeing our friends and family for long periods
- The physicality of our work can lead to chronic pain
- Production timelines and our work environment can cause stress
- Substance and alcohol use can mask the issue
- Cultural stigmas around mental illness instigate secrecy and isolation
Make suicide prevention a health and safety priority on your job site.
Is leadership talking about this critical issue? Ask your job site steward to make sure that this epidemic is being discussed, alongside encouraging a supportive job site culture. Stress management and self-care are essential topics to cover during safety meetings. Mental health has a direct impact on the quality of life of people, in addition to impacting work productivity.
Make sure suicide prevention resources are available in the job shack.
Call your Council Representative to get posters out to your job.
KENT HQ (253) 945.8800
PORTLAND (503) 261.1862
Coping Tips and Resources for those affected by the COVID-19 Outbreak: Emotional Wellbeing During the COVID-19 Outbreak
Do you see signs that someone is struggling?
Often the process of talking through a problem leads to solutions. Practice your listening skills. Ask your co-worker if they are okay or if they need help.
It can be difficult, but asking direct questions and approaching the topic of suicide is vital in letting that person know that they are not alone and that support is available.
Direct them to qualified resources such as:
National Alliance On Mental Illness
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Veterans Crisis Line
CARPENTER TRUSTS
For information on your health care coverage, contact your trust.