Guest column from the Homebuilders Association of Greater Kansas City
The construction industry has long faced one of the highest suicide rates among all professions. Recent data from the Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR) shows encouraging declines in both suicide and drug-related death rates among construction workers. This progress is meaningful. It represents lives saved, conversations started and a growing commitment to mental health across the industry.
But even one life lost is one too many.
There is still much work to be done. That is why the theme for Construction Suicide Prevention Week, Sept. 14-18, is “Building on Progress.” The theme recognizes the strides the industry has made while challenging everyone to continue moving forward. It means breaking down barriers, strengthening pathways to support and creating a culture where asking for help is viewed as a sign of strength — not weakness.
The Construction Suicide Prevention Week Board of Directors is inviting everyone to take a simple but powerful pledge: during the week, learn about at least one resource that could help someone in crisis. This could mean becoming more informed about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, understanding the services available through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), or participating in a toolbox talk. Every step increases awareness and has the potential to help save a life.
The board also encourages everyone to download and share the pledge on social media to demonstrate their commitment to supporting mental health in the construction industry.
“Our goal is to make sure every person goes home safely and returns to the jobsite healthy each day — both physically and mentally,” said Kara McCaffrey, 2026 Chair of Construction Suicide Prevention Week. “We want people to know it’s okay to ask for help and to understand the resources available to them. Supporting employees’ mental health should be just as important as protecting their physical health, and that starts with creating an environment where people feel comfortable speaking up and seeking support.”
Also during Construction Suicide Prevention Week, the construction industry will once again unite in a powerful moment of remembrance to honor those we’ve lost and to re-commit to preventing further loss of life during a national stand-down Monday, Sept. 14 at 1:50 p.m. Central Daylight Time.
The impact of this movement continues to grow. Last year, nearly 700 organizations, reaching over 500,000 workers across the country, participated in Construction Suicide Prevention Week.
Through these efforts, companies across the country are helping normalize conversations about mental health, connecting workers with critical resources and, ultimately, saving lives.
About Construction Suicide Prevention Week. Every year, during September — National Suicide Prevention Month — the construction industry dedicates a week to raising awareness about the unique challenges workers face in construction, how it can lead to suicide, and what we can do to prevent it. What started with a group of mission-driven volunteers has now grown to include nearly 700 companies representing over 500,000 workers across all 50 states and U.S. territories. Together, we can save lives. Visit constructionsuicideprevention.com for more information.
Ron Timbrook • July 22, 2026 at 9:47 am
Sadly we lost a son 2 years ago coming up on August 17th and could have been prevented had he reached out and ask for help. He just kept so much inside of him that finally he took his own life that he left in a note that just couldn’t deal with it anymore. You know when the police arrive at your home early on a Saturday morning that something has gone wrong.