Every September, the construction industry comes together for Construction Suicide Prevention Week. This week is dedicated to addressing one of the toughest realities our workforce faces. The construction industry has the second-highest rate of suicide in the United States, with 53.3 deaths per 100,000 workers, according to the CDC. That number is more than just a statistic; it represents friends, coworkers, and family members who have been lost far too soon.
The initiative began in 2019 when a group of volunteers launched the first official week of awareness. Their mission was to raise visibility about the higher-than-average number of suicides in construction and to provide resources that could help prevent them. Today, the effort continues to grow as companies across the country participate in toolbox talks, share resources, and encourage open conversations. Together, we can save lives.
The theme for 2025 is Build Community, a reminder that construction workers are not only building projects but also building relationships with one another. Every day, we create community spaces that bring people together. This year’s theme encourages us to put that same energy into building support and connection on our job sites and in our workplaces.
The unique pressures of construction can make mental health challenges harder to carry. Long hours, tight deadlines, physical demands, and frequent travel can lead to stress and isolation. Many in the industry also feel the weight of financial strain or the expectation to stay strong and silent. These realities contribute to the higher risk of suicide that our industry faces. Acknowledging these challenges is an important first step toward creating a healthier environment.
At Kalb Construction, we believe that building is personal. That belief guides how we approach every project, and it also shapes how we support our people. Safety means more than helmets and harnesses. It includes mental health, trust, and knowing that no one is alone. During Construction Suicide Prevention Week, we are proud to stand with our peers to raise awareness, provide resources, and encourage meaningful conversations.
There are simple ways to take part in this effort. You can attend a toolbox talk, pause during the national stand-down moment of silence, or take the pledge to check in with someone regularly. These actions may feel small, but they have the power to make a real difference in someone’s life.
If you or someone you know is struggling, immediate help is available. Call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The Construction Suicide Prevention Week website also offers a library of resources for workers and employers, including educational materials and peer support tools.
Construction Suicide Prevention Week 2025 takes place from September 8 to 12. Over the coming days, we will continue to share stories, resources, and ways to take action. Building awareness is the first step, but building community is how we create lasting change.
