Merrilee Logue, Executive Director of the National Labor Office at Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss suicide prevention, mental health resources and industry-specific challenges. She highlighted the importance of addressing mental health stigma, outlined available support systems and emphasized the need for increased awareness and action.
Logue shed light on the alarming suicide rates in specific industries, particularly construction and first responders. She emphasized the ongoing opioid crisis as a contributing factor and discussed her involvement with the Opioid Task Force for North American Building Trades. The task force focuses on reducing suicide and drug overdose rates by addressing work-related factors and ensuring workers and their families know where to seek help.
Blue Cross Blue Shield offers various mental health resources, including information about stigma reduction, partnerships with organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club of America and efforts to improve access to affordable care. Logue stressed the importance of expanding telehealth services, leveraging non-clinical support personnel and increasing the number of available mental health providers. She encouraged members to contact their organizational leadership to understand their coverage and access these resources.
The 988 Lifeline was highlighted as a crucial resource for anyone seeking mental health support. This free, 24/7 service offers assistance through calls, texts and chat for various mental health concerns. Logue also mentioned Mental Health First Aid training as an excellent resource for learning to identify, understand and respond to mental health and substance use challenges.
Listen to the full episode of America's Work Force for more insights on mental health resources and support.