Associate Professor Dr. Jodi Frey was one of serveral presenters during a webinar on preventing suicide in the construction industry. The webinar was offered on behalf of the HealthyMenMichigan.org campaign. HealthyMenMichigan.org offers men in Michigan access to free mental health screenings and resources, and is part of a research study aimed at reducing the suicide rate among working age men in the state.
Participants heard from experts in workplace mental health who address suicide in male-dominated professions like construction.
The suicide rate among workers in the construction industry is four times the national average. Experts consider potential causes to be financial stress, “tough guy” culture, being away from family for seasonal work, and a high-pressure work environment.