WAYLAND, Mich. (WOOD) — The construction industry is trying to bring awareness to the higher suicide rate among its workers compared with other professions.
The Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights in Wayland is working to help address the issue and reduce the stigma during Construction Suicide Prevention Week.
Jose Sanchez, the facility coordinator with the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights in Wayland, says the issue is a major concern.
“That’s been a stigma for years, right. You know, ‘I’m tougher than that and I can hold it in and I don’t need to talk about this because I don’t want to be perceived as weak.’ But honestly, talking to somebody really shows the strength that you have,” Sanchez said.
Suicide is a leading cause of death for working-age adults in the U.S. In the construction industry, the suicide rate is nearly four times higher than the national average.
Sanchez says the organization provides access to a 24-hour hotline and training about the issue.