Continuing our coverage of Mental Health Awareness Month, Cal Beyer, Senior Director of Safe Workplaces for the Stop the Addiction Fatality Epidemic (SAFE) Project, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the intersection of substance abuse, mental health and suicide prevention in the construction industry.
Drawing from his personal experience with opioid misuse as a teenager, Beyer stressed the construction industry's vulnerability to substance abuse and mental health challenges. He noted that the industry's overdose death rate is significantly higher than other industry sectors, largely due to musculoskeletal injuries leading to opioid prescriptions. Beyer emphasized the need for increased awareness and proactive measures to address these issues, citing the industry's delayed recognition of the problem due to a lack of data and stigma.
The conversation highlighted the progress made in recent years, with Beyer pointing to the establishment of dedicated resources for the construction industry. He mentioned the new Construction Care Line, a 24/7 hotline specifically for construction workers. They have two phone numbers - one for individuals living in Oregon (503-433-7878) and a nationwide number (833-444-6020). He emphasized the importance of employee assistance programs offered by labor unions. Beyer also discussed the role of naloxone in reversing opioid overdoses and encouraged unions to make it available to members and on jobsites.
Beyer then outlined several key resources for mental health and substance abuse support, including the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, the Crisis Text Line and organizations like the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention. He stressed the importance of normalizing conversations about mental health and providing pathways to recovery. Beyer emphasized that by equipping people with resources and fostering a supportive environment, the industry can make significant strides in addressing these critical issues.
To hear more about Beyer's insights on mental health and substance abuse in construction, listen to the full episode.