Ironworkers Local 7 Business Manager Michael Hess joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast and discussed the mental health services available for union members through Employee Assistance Programs, including the service they use, Modern Assistance.
Local 7 represents over 3,600 Iron Workers in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought mental health recovery to the forefront, especially in the construction industry, where suicide rates are four times higher than average, Hess said. Modern Assistance offers mental health services to help deal with depression, addiction recovery and other challenges through outpatient treatment programs and telehealth services. He added that Local 7’s signatory contractors are involved with the program and have helped to remove the negative stigma often tied to construction workers seeking treatment.
Hess then talked about Local 7’s apprenticeship programs and work outlook, which is booming. He also spoke about the pride of working with U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh, the former Mayor of Boston who has deep roots with the New England building trades.
Listen to the entire episode to learn more about these topics.