Breaking the Silence: LCL’s Commitment to Suicide Awareness and Mental Health

In the construction industry, where the clang of tools and the hum of machinery often drown out softer conversations, the topic of mental health and suicide awareness is one that has been shrouded in silence for too long. Unfortunately, statistics reveal a harsh reality – a significant number of men working in construction grapple with thoughts of self-harm or suicide. At LCL, we recognize the gravity of this issue and have embarked on a mission to break the silence surrounding mental health in our industry.

Understanding Mental Health in Construction:

Mental health, often relegated to the shadows, is a critical aspect of overall well-being. Life stressors surround us all, but in the construction industry, these stressors can be particularly daunting. Fast-paced environments, high-pressure demands, tight deadlines, and the seasonal nature of the work create a perfect storm for a stressful atmosphere. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by our construction workers, LCL acknowledges the urgency to address mental health concerns head-on.

LCL’s Mental Health Program: A Beginning, Not an End:

This year, LCL has taken a bold step towards creating a mental health policy/program for all our employees. While the current program outlines essential resources and guidelines, it is not the final destination. Here’s what we have in store for the future:

• In-Depth Training Program: LCL is collaborating with NLCSA to develop a comprehensive training program. This initiative aims to equip our workers with the knowledge and skills needed to address mental health challenges effectively.
• Peer Support Program: A critical component of our future initiative is the establishment of a peer support program. This program will provide a lifeline for workers in crisis, offering them someone to talk to and connecting them with the necessary resources.
• Mantherapy.org Partnership: LCL has forged a partnership with www.Mantherapy.org, a valuable resource that provides mental health support. Despite the name, these resources are available for everyone, emphasizing the importance of breaking gender stereotypes in mental health discussions.
• National Mental Health Program: LCL is actively involved in discussions with NBCSA to contribute to a national mental health program. This initiative recognizes the need for representation of the construction workforce in mental health discussions across Canada.

Your Role in the Journey:

We understand that breaking the silence requires collective effort. As a construction worker, here are two important things we need from you:

• Speak Up: If you are facing mental health challenges, you don’t have to navigate them alone. Speak up, share your experiences, and seek support. You are not alone in this journey.
• Share Your Input: LCL is building this mental health policy for you. Your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions matter. Tell us what you need in this policy, and rest assured that every conversation will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

At LCL, we are committed to fostering a workplace culture that prioritizes mental health, breaks the stigma, and provides the support our workers deserve. Together, let’s create an environment where every worker feels seen, heard, and supported.”