Redefine Strength: It's Time to Talk About Mental Wellness
Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association (SCSA)
Promoting safety within the construction environment and building awareness toward safer communities.
High suicide rates, more mental health issues than the general population, a reputation for “toughness” and reluctance to reach out for help are a concerning combination for the construction industry. No one wants to be viewed or judged as weak, incompetent or feel shame in dealing with mental health challenges. But for anyone working in construction who thinks they are alone in their battle—many are going through similar struggles.?
In response to concerns heard from members, the Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association (SCSA) and the provincial network of construction associations recently partnered to break the silence and talk about mental health as an essential part of health and safety on the worksite.?
Psychological wellness has not typically been considered in terms of workplace health and safety, but SCSA president Collin Pullar says it’s beyond time. “Mental health concerns are hidden hazards that we need to pay attention to as much as the physical, visible hazards seen every day on job sites. Just as it’s important to protect physical safety with hard hats, safety glasses, gloves and work boots, we need to take care of mental health by checking in with each other and making sure people have access to the resources they need.”
The SCSA enlisted mental health advocate Allan Kehler to give a keynote presentation to the construction community on November 2, 2022, in Prince Albert. Kehler began his presentation by sharing that he recently read an article that said one of the greatest dangers in construction work is poor mental health. He outlined specific factors that affect those working in the industry:
Kehler knows from personal experience how it feels to struggle and come out the other side. At his lowest low, he was given a month to live if he didn’t make drastic changes. He doesn’t pretend that it was ever easy, but in allowing himself to be vulnerable and put a voice to his pain, he was able to finally get the help he needed.?
He stressed the incredible difference it can make to hear someone say, “I’m concerned about you and want you to know that if you ever need to talk, I’m here to listen.” If you feel uncomfortable approaching someone who appears to be struggling, he suggests using this simple script to let them know you care about them and are there to listen, whenever they are ready to talk.
Keynote Speaker ?? | Survived Chronic Homelessness | Became CEO | Walked 17 Months Across Canada for Charity | Change Navigator ??| Inspiration??| Motivation ?? | Lifetime Impact ??| Vistage Speaker
2 年Amen Allan Kehler!
Mental Health Keynote Speaker creating a culture of connection where people are seen, heard, and supported | TEDx Speaker | Best-Selling Author x 4
2 年Thank you Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association (SCSA) for making the conversation around mental health a priority, and for reminding us that there is nothing 'manly' about suffering in silence.