National Federation of Demolition Contractors’ Post

🎗 On World Suicide Prevention Day it is important to highlight our commitment to supporting our team's mental health and remind people of the help that is out there. Earlier this year, our strong safety record earned us a fifth RoSPA Gold award. The award not only recognises our efforts to keep people safe from physical harm in their daily work, but acknowledges the measures we have implemented to support their mental health and wellbeing. Since the pandemic, there has been a heightened focus on mental health by employers. At Aptus we have reinforced our commitment with substantial investment, providing mental health awareness training to all colleagues who choose to participate. The engagement from our team has been outstanding, with more than forty individuals having completed training with MHFA England® - which has significantly contributed to our positive health and safety culture. 💚 Mental Health Ambassadors are now on hand throughout our organisation, from our offices to our depots and operational sites, to lend support to anyone who may need it. We are also supporters of The Lighthouse Charity, who understand the unique challenges facing construction workers and their families. They offer free resources including a helpline, app and wellbeing training, including a Suicide Awareness Course. Visit ➡https://lnkd.in/erqAQz75 ✅ In line with our commitment, we regularly assess and enhance our mental health support to meet our team's needs. Training more individuals in mental health awareness raises the likelihood that people will express their concerns, which could be lifesaving. We encourage anyone in need of help to speak out and seek support. In this discussion, HSQE Manager Delicia Maxwell outlines our strategy and explains why we consider the mental health and wellbeing of our team members to be as critical as their physical health and safety. ➡https://lnkd.in/e6P_WtEQ #WorldSuicidePreventionDay #mentalhealthawareness #construction

This #WorldSuicidePreventionDay (10th September) provides an opportunity for workplaces and sites across the country to get involved, look out for your mates and start a conversation which could in turn save a life. In 2024, the theme is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”. The aim is to ‘shift from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support’. Why is World Suicide Prevention Day important? The shocking statistics regarding the suicide in our key sectors tell us why World Suicide Prevention Day is so important: - Four in five suicides are by men, with suicide the biggest cause of death for men under 35. - In 2022, there were 6,588 suicides registered in the UK. - Of the 6,319 suicides registered in the UK in 2021, 507 were in #construction alone. - #Drivers of work lift trucks had a suicide rate 85% higher than the national average, van drivers were noted to have a rate 25% higher, and drivers of large goods vehicles 20% higher than the national average. As the Office of National Statistic report stated: attempting to explain suicide is complex as it is likely that a number of factors act together to increase risk, including some job-related features. We believe employers can play a critical role in helping to prevent suicides. There is a moral case, but also a growing awareness of a strong business case, which demonstrates that prevention needs to be at the heart of changes to company culture which employers wish to make. Find out how to #StartTheConversation by downloading Mates in Mind’s free World Suicide Prevention Day 2024 pack and poster at https://lnkd.in/edkYTzQE Please view MPA’s free mental health resources and supporting information on Safequarry.com, including our guides to ‘Recognising and Managing Mental Health and Wellbeing Issues - Clear, Simple, Smart’ for Employees and Managers: https://lnkd.in/dyhTNt5. For more information and resources, please visit the following websites: Mates in Mind: https://lnkd.in/gSmtHmn The Lighthouse Charity: https://lnkd.in/gdSn_mi International Association for Suicide Prevention: https://lnkd.in/gU7tE4-W #WSPD #BeAMateBeTheChange #SuicidePrevention #KeepYourMatesInMind #MentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness

It’s Suicide Prevention Month – Are we really tackling the core issue? Yes, businesses have come a long way when it comes to mental health and wellbeing – there’s no denying that. From wellness programmes to employee support services, EAP Programs etc. Its all amazing work. But let’s be honest, suicide prevention and suicide first aid training are still glaring omissions in the corporate world. In the UK, male suicide rates are devastatingly high – 25.5 deaths per 100,000 men aged 45-49. In Ireland, the situation is no better. Men account for 80% of all suicides, with a rate of 14.9 per 100,000, compared to just 3.6 for women. Despite this, only 3% of companies are offering proper suicide prevention workshops. Why the hesitation? Many believe it’s too sensitive a subject, but staying silent doesn’t save lives. The question we need to ask ourselves is: Are we doing enough? Have we trained our leaders in Suicide First Aid? Are we truly prepared to support those in crisis, or are we still shying away from this critical issue? Myth: Talking about suicide increases risk. Fact: Research shows that having open, honest conversations about suicide actually reduces risk and encourages people to seek help. This Suicide Prevention Month, let’s go beyond raising awareness. Let’s take meaningful steps to protect lives in our workplaces. #SuicidePreventionMonth #MentalHealthAtWork #SuicideFirstAid #CorporateResponsibility

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. We remember the many lives lost to suicide, and consider the millions more who have thought about suicide. It’s also a time to raise awareness about prevention. Some facts: - Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the US. - In 2022, 49,476 Americans died by suicide. - Approximately 1.6 million more attempted suicide. - White males accounted for 68.46% of those suicides. How can HR professionals help? 1. Create safe and supportive workplaces: Foster a workplace culture where employees feel comfortable seeking help without fear of stigma or retaliation. 2. Educate supervisors and staff: Training should include recognizing warning signs, how to provide support, suicide prevention techniques, and how to respond in crises. 3. Offer resources: Ensure employees have access to mental health resources, such as counseling services, hotlines, mental health professionals, and employee assistance programs (EAPs). 4. Promote balance: Encourage policies that help employees manage stress, such as flexible hours, remote work options, sufficient time off, and accommodations for employees going through personal crises or challenges. Are you in crisis? Call or text 988 or text TALK to 741741 You are not alone.

The subject I am about to broach is not the most heartwarming of topics, but it is incredibly important that we continue to bring attention to it. September is Suicide Awareness Month. Did you know that over 49,000 people died by suicide in 2022. 1 death every 11 minutes. In fact, many adults think about suicide or attempt suicide. 13.2 million have seriously thought about suicide. 3.8 million have made a plan for suicide. 1.6 million have attempted suicide. Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the US. 3.85% more men died of suicide than women. White males accounted for 68.46% of suicide deaths in 2022. Unfortunately, many of us have grown up hearing phrases such as "Get over it everyone has problems", "This too shall pass", "Stop being a crybaby"... the list goes on and on. And while there is a time and a place for "tough love" responding to someone in crisis like this is not the time or the place for "tough love". In fact a large number of us have lost someone we love to suicide and find ourselves often wondering what we could have done differently to help prevent this tragedy. As HR professionals we are often confronted with helping a team member in crisis. This can be mentally and emotionally exhausting but so important. How do you arm yourself with the proper tools to help guide your team to the right resources in a time of need? At Accutemp myself, our Marketing Coordinator and two of our Field Leaders spent the past two days at an Adult Mental Health First Aid Course (MFHA.ORG) to arm ourselves with the proper tools, information and resources to do just that... help support and guide our team members to the proper resources should they find themselves in crisis. This does not make us professionals by any stretch of the imagination, but it does empower us to recognize the warning signs of someone potentially going into or in crisis. It helps us practice empathy, understanding and patience. It has given us support for our Field Teams through our Team Leaders that have their boots on the ground day in and day out and for our Office Team through those of us that attended the course. We need to be better about taking the time to make this a "normal" discussion. We need to stop creating a stigma around the need for professional help and use of medication when warranted. Talk to your employees about your Employee Assistance Programs (EAP); don't just hand them a pamphlet at orientation glazing over the vast resources they can provide and provide at no cost to your teams. What is the point of the resource if we are not vocal about how useful they are. September Is Suicide Awareness Month Reach out to the person that is normally bubbly & chatty & no longer is. Reach out to the person that normally has endless energy and is now sleeping all the time. Reach out to the person that has recently or not so recently suffered loss; they are still suffering. Be the light at the end of someone's tunnel. Accutemp Engineering Inc

𝗦𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝘀 𝗦𝘂𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵 September is recognized as Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting resources to prevent suicide. The origins of this campaign date back to 2008, when various organizations in the U.S. came together to address the growing concern of suicide and its impact on families and communities. Since then, Suicide Prevention Month has gained global momentum, highlighting the importance of mental health and well-being. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), suicide is one of the leading causes of death, with over 48,000 deaths annually in the United States alone. These numbers make it clear that suicide is a public health crisis, and it’s one we can help address by creating awareness, supporting mental health initiatives, and encouraging open discussions. Warning signs to watch for: Isolation: Withdrawing from family, friends, or activities once enjoyed. Hopelessness: Expressing feelings of hopelessness or having no reason to live. Behavioral changes: Increased use of substances, reckless behavior, or sleeping too much/too little. Verbal cues: Talking about feeling trapped, being a burden to others, or having thoughts of suicide. How we can help: Check-in regularly: Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues who may be struggling. A simple "How are you doing?" can open the door to meaningful conversations. Listen without judgment: Sometimes, people just need someone to listen. Be that person without offering solutions or dismissing their feelings. Encourage professional help: If someone you know shows warning signs, encourage them to seek help from a counselor, therapist, or mental health professional. Know the resources: Have a list of mental health resources readily available. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) and the new 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline are valuable tools for those in crisis. For workplaces, educational institutions, and community leaders, this is a prime time to review mental health policies, provide employee assistance programs (EAP), and create an environment where mental health is openly discussed and prioritized. Training in mental health first aid and crisis intervention can also make a significant impact in identifying and helping those at risk. It’s vital to remember that suicide prevention is a shared responsibility. Whether it’s through professional services, personal outreach, or organizational support, we all play a role in ensuring that those who are struggling know they are not alone. #FrontlineSRM #JVEC #SuicidePrevention #MentalHealth #CrisisIntervention #YouMatter

My whole #Network - #HR, #TalentAttraction, #Recruitment - Today is World Suicide Prevention Day - Having lost friends, and colleagues today and every day.. It's important to remember that you're not alone, and it's okay to talk about your feelings. Today, we take a moment to acknowledge the profound impact that suicide has on individuals, families, and communities. The pain of losing someone to suicide is deep and long-lasting, affecting every aspect of life. However, by fostering open conversations, we can help prevent further loss. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 800,000 people die by suicide every year, which equates to one person every 40 seconds. For each suicide, many more people attempt it, and for every suicide, up to 135 people are affected by it, including friends, family members, colleagues, and communities. The Samaritans is one of the organizations leading suicide prevention. They emphasize the importance of reaching out to others, whether you're struggling yourself or worried about someone else. Here are a few key points to consider: Listen without judgment: Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is simply listen. Allow the person to talk about their feelings without interrupting or offering solutions right away. Encourage professional help: Encourage those struggling to seek professional support. The Samaritans offer a 24/7 helpline (116 123) for anyone in need. Be patient: Healing is a process, and it takes time. Be patient with yourself and others as you navigate through these difficult emotions. Check-in regularly: Regularly checking in on friends, family, and colleagues can make a significant difference. A simple message or phone call can mean a lot to someone who feels isolated. For more resources and support, please visit the Samaritans website or call their helpline at 116 123. Let’s continue to raise awareness, support one another, and create a world where no one feels alone in their struggles. It's okay to talk, and there are always people who will listen. #WorldSuicidePreventionDay #MentalHealthMatters #ItsOkToTalk Key Organizations Supporting Suicide Prevention: Samaritans (UK and Ireland): A leading organisation offering 24/7 support to those in distress. You can reach them at 116 123 or visit their website. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA): Provides 24/7, free, and confidential support for people in distress. Call 988 or visit their website. Lifeline (Australia): Offers 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. You can call them at 13 11 14 or visit their website. Crisis Services Canada: Available 24/7 to anyone in crisis. You can call 1-833-456-4566 or visit their website. Telefonseelsorge (Germany): Offers free, 24/7 support to people in crisis. You can call 0800 111 0 111 or visit their website. 113 Zelfmoordpreventie (Netherlands): Provides 24/7 confidential support for those in need. You can call 113 or visit their website for assistance.

Construction Suicide Prevention Week The construction industry has the second highest rate of suicide in the U.S., with 53.3 per 100,000 workers affected. On average, there are 123 suicides every day in our country—equivalent to one death every 12 minutes. (Source: SafeBuild Alliance) Preventing suicide requires a collective effort from all of us. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to help employers promote mental wellness among their workers or to organize a stand-down or other events with their teams. Here’s what you need to know: 1️⃣ Be Aware: We can all help prevent suicide. Mental health can be difficult to talk about, especially at work, but your actions can save lives. 2️⃣ Pay Attention: Learn the warning signs. Behavioral changes, mood swings, or certain statements can indicate someone is at risk. Take these signs seriously. 3️⃣ Reach Out: If you're worried about a coworker, ask them, "Are you okay?" Listen without judgment and encourage them to reach out to EAP, HR, or a mental health professional. 4️⃣ Take Action: If a coworker is in crisis, stay with them and seek help immediately. Call emergency services or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. 5️⃣ Learn More: Resources are available. - Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text “TALK” to 741741. - Visit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (www.afsp.org) for more information. Together, we can make a difference. #SuicidePrevention #ConstructionSuicidePreventionWeek #CDAtps #WBE #WomenOwnedBusiness #WBECeast #WBENC #WBENCNetwork #WBENCCertified #NAWIC #NAWICphl #CDAbluebell #DA4S #NAWICChapter145

AFSP’s recent Harris Poll surveying U.S. adults’ perceptions of mental health and suicide prevention found that respondents overwhelmingly (92%) believe that employers have a role to play in suicide prevention. With the average adult estimated to spend a third of their life at work, workplaces are crucial communities to reach people with lifesaving resources. What many don’t realize is that the way in which a suicide death is responded to may increase or decrease safety for others in the community and environment affected. That’s why this week the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention launched After a Suicide: Postvention Toolkit for Workplaces to aid this critical effort.

A much needed resource for the workplace, these are the types of resources and initiatives your support helps us to develop. Employers be sure to visit and download the toolkit. #afspli #suicideprevention #mentalhealth