Protecting Worker Well-Being in Immigrant Populations

September is Suicide Prevention Month

The new 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress. It’s a direct connection to compassionate, accessible care and support for anyone experiencing mental health-related distress – whether thoughts of suicide, mental health, substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress. People can also call or text 988 if they are worried about a friend or coworker who may need crisis support.

For more information, visit www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988

Suicide is the 10^th leading cause of death in the United States. Construction workers are 5 times more likely to die by suicide than all other construction fatalities combined.

“There is a stigma associated with talking about mental health,” said Diane Rohlman, Ph.D., Director of the Healthier Workforce Center of the Midwest and Associate Dean for Research at the University of Iowa College of Public Health. “This stigma prevents people from getting help or treatment. And treatment works. That’s the good news. If we can get people to treatment – they can recover. So we need to start by talking.”

In recognition of Suicide Prevention Month, JE Dunn Construction held a safety stand down earlier this month at the new University of Iowa Hospital jobsite in North Liberty. Dr. Rohlman addressed the crowd and described ways in which workers can support one another to end the stigma associated with mental illness. “I know talking about this is difficult. Start the conversation. Remember – with support and the right treatment you can get through this tough time.”

Medallions, hard hat stickers, and wallet cards with the suicide prevention hotline number were distributed to the crowd. Dr. Rohlman suggested, “keep them with you and share them with someone who shows warning signs.“

“We encourage all employers to make mental health part of the safety conversation. The Healthier Workforce Center and our partners at the Associated General Contractors of Missouri have developed free materials for a workplace suicide prevention campaign. The materials are available for download at www.healthierworkforcecenter.org/you-ok-campaign.”