Mental Health, Feat. Jake & Jason

Mental Health in Construction: Breaking the Silence and Finding Support

Mental health is an often overlooked but critical topic in the construction industry. In this blog, Jake Smalley and Jason Schroeder dive deep into their personal experiences and discuss the mental health challenges many workers and leaders face. This honest conversation aims to break down stigma and encourage open dialogue within the industry.

Jake begins by sharing about his recent vacation, a brief respite spent outdoors in Idaho and Utah, but quickly steers the discussion toward a topic close to his heart: mental health. He candidly reveals his ongoing battle with depression and shares the heartbreaking story of his father, who died by suicide nearly three years ago. This personal loss underscores the urgency of addressing mental health issues in construction a field where such struggles are alarmingly common yet rarely talked about openly.

Jason contributes important statistics that reveal the scale of the problem. Suicide rates in construction are five times higher than workplace fatalities. More construction workers die by suicide annually than in on-site accidents, and the numbers even exceed veteran suicide rates a staggering and sobering fact. These statistics highlight how mental health crises can be fueled by the stressful, demanding nature of construction work: rushed timelines, trade stacking, long hours, isolation, and financial and personal pressures.

Both speakers emphasize the pervasive “macho” culture in construction that discourages vulnerability and open conversations about mental health. Jake notes that many men in the industry hide their struggles to avoid seeming weak. Jason adds that there’s a crucial need for empathy and understanding, pointing out that those contemplating suicide often feel trapped and hopeless, believing they’re doing others a favor by leaving. The message is clear, “compassion and connection can save lives”.

The conversation then shifts to practical advice. Jake shares that talking openly about mental health, seeking counseling, and connecting with supportive people like family or friends have been lifelines for him. Jason adds a powerful perspective, suggesting that mental health challenges may partly stem from “genetic demons,” but the narrative can be changed. He underscores the importance of building a strong support ecosystem an environment where people have multiple “life rafts” or sources of help before despair sets in.

Service to others also emerges as a healing practice. Jake reflects on how serving others, even in small ways, can restore a sense of purpose and perspective, helping to flip the script on feelings of worthlessness or depression.

The blog also touches on the importance of language and mindset around mental health. Jason shares that he believes no one who dies by suicide is condemned or sinful instead, such individuals deserve compassion, not judgment. Drawing from Japanese Shinto beliefs, he highlights the profound idea that every person has inherent value and divinity, which can help foster respect and kindness toward those suffering.

In closing, the blog reinforces that mental health struggles are universal, and the construction community must come together to talk openly, support one another, and create an environment where no one feels isolated or hopeless.

Key Takeaway:

Mental health in construction is a critical yet often hidden issue, masked by stigma and a “macho” culture with consequences that can be tragic. By creating safe spaces for open conversation, showing empathy, and building supportive relationships, we can break the silence, recognize the signs of struggle early, and encourage seeking help. Fostering connection, understanding, and a sense of shared value reminds every person they are not alone and that hope and healing are always possible.