If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please contact our helpline or call 999 immediately.
Take Action. Save a life.
Any given person you encounter on a construction site or office building may be carrying a burden.
That burden will be heavier than any tool, piece of equipment or cinderblock.
That burden could be one incredibly heavy and difficult problem that they’ve been carrying around for years, or it could be a thousand small stressors, all delicately balanced.
Keeping your fingers crossed that the person is strong enough to cope or that “they’ll get through it” just isn’t enough.
For World Suicide Prevention Day, we’re calling for action.
Because when someone is struggling to carry their load. A simple conversation could be enough to save their life.
Suicide remains a significant issue within our industry, with construction workers facing a risk that is three times higher than the national average. The pressures of long hours, job insecurity, working away from home, financial concerns and a culture that often encourages people to “just get on with it” can leave many feeling isolated and overwhelmed.
But suicide is not inevitable. Reaching out, checking in and having a conversation can help someone feel seen, heard and supported. This World Suicide Prevention Day campaign focuses on the power of interrupting suicidal thoughts through human connection and timely action.
How to start that conversation?
We’ve all seen people struggling. You can feel helpless, and starting the conversation can feel daunting.
Don’t Wait for The Perfect Words
Many people worry about saying the wrong thing, so they say nothing at all.
The truth is, you don’t need to be a counsellor, mental health professional or expert. If you’re worried about someone, take action.
A simple conversation can show someone they’re not alone.
Try asking:
- “How are things really going?”
- “I’ve noticed you don’t seem yourself lately. How are you coping?”
- “You seem under a lot of pressure at the moment. Can I talk to you about it?”
You don’t need to solve their problems. Sometimes the most important thing you can do is listen without judgement and remind them that support is available.
Know The Signs
If someone is struggling, there may be warning signs. Some are obvious, while others can be harder to spot.
Signs may include:
- Withdrawing from friends, family or colleagues
- Significant changes in mood or behaviour
- Appearing anxious, agitated or hopeless
- Increased alcohol or drug use
- Reckless behaviour or taking unusual risks
- Changes in sleep or eating habits
- Talking about being a burden, feeling trapped or having no future
- Giving possessions away, saying goodbye or putting affairs in order
If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and start the conversation.
Your Conversation Could Change A Life
Many people who experience suicidal thoughts don’t necessarily want to die. They want the pain, pressure or hopelessness they’re feeling to end.
Checking in with a workmate, friend, partner, family member or colleague can create a pause. It can interrupt thoughts that have become overwhelming and help someone feel connected when they need it most.
This World Suicide Prevention Day, we encourage everyone in construction to take action:
- Check in on a colleague.
- Call a friend you’ve not heard from in a while.
- Ask a second time if someone says they’re “fine”.
- Make time to listen.
- Encourage someone to seek support.
Small actions can have a lasting impact.
If somebody tells you they’re struggling:
- Stay calm and listen.
- Let them know you’ve heard them.
- Avoid judging, dismissing or trying to immediately fix the situation.
- Encourage them to access support.
- If you believe they’re at immediate risk of harming themselves, stay with them and seek emergency assistance. Dial 999 or call our helpline.
You don’t need the answer. You simply need to start a conversation.
Need Advice About Supporting Someone or Need Support Yourself?
If you’re worried about a colleague, friend or family member, or you’re unsure how to help, our team is here for you.
Live Web Chat With Our Support Team
Our confidential Live Web Chat service offers a safe space to talk through your concerns and seek expert guidance.
Click the Live Chat icon to speak with a member of our team.
Or Call Our Free 24/7 Helpline:
Together, We Can Take Action
Creating a stronger, safer construction industry starts with looking out for one another.
This World Suicide Prevention Day, don’t assume someone else will ask the question.
Take action.
Start the conversation.
You could make a difference when it matters most.
Download our ‘World Suicide Prevention Day’ assets, including graphics and social media copy.
How we can help
We provide free and confidential wellbeing support to everyone working in construction and their families across the UK and Ireland.
No matter the challenge, no matter who you are, support is here when you need it.
Click through the slides below to find out more about the free, confidential support services available to you.
