The latest statistics show the suicide rate in the construction industry is about five times the general population. To address this staggering crisis, the Building & Construction Trades Council (BCTC) is rolling out its Peer Support Network across all trades in New York’s construction industry. Overall, this program aims to change a “culture of silence” to one of open discussion and treatment as needed, with the help of 1,000 on-the-job peers who will help connect workers to their unions’ respective Member Assistance Programs (MAP). Peers will be identifiable by a unique hardhat sticker and will respond to any worker on site regardless of trade or union affiliation.
After two years of research and training the trainers, the “It’s Not Weak to Speak” presentation has been incorporated into Local 3’s Apprentice Program, and it was recently brought to Local 3’s leadership and business representatives at the union hall on October 1st by certified facilitators, Organizing Director Ray Kitson and member Lorenzo Curtis. The presentation outlined the BCTC’s plan with the direct support of Local 3 and other trade unions, shared statistics and studies on mental health, and busted myths particularly among construction workers.
In addition to the 988 Lifeline, Local 3 members can contact Annette Rivera, Director of Substance Abuse Services & Mental Health Referral Guidance, at arivera@jibei.com or (718) 591-2000 ext. 1396. You are not alone and help is available.
