Tradies fly the flag for mental health awareness

In conjunction with World Suicide Prevention Day and R U OK day, tradies across the country have signed up to flag the issue of suicide and mental health in the construction industry by flying a literal flag wherever they’re working today.

Each year, 190 Australian construction workers take their lives — six times the number killed by workplace accidents, according to suicide prevention charity, MATES in Construction.

The organisation coordinated Fly the Flag Day in partnership with building companies, unions, employer groups, and other mental health organisations.

MATES in Construction NSW CEO, Brad Parker, said the program was an industry-driven response to the suicide crisis in the sector, which sees one worker take their life every two days.

“Young construction workers are more than twice as likely to die from suicide than other young men,” he said.

“Job insecurity, high work demands, financial stress, relationship breakdowns, and mental health challenges all put workers at risk, while the transient nature of our industry can make it hard to build strong support networks.

“The traditional blokey culture, where people don’t discuss emotions and feelings with workmates, can also pose a challenge to people getting the help they need.

“Fly the Flag Day is about shining a spotlight on the problem, breaking down the stigma of asking for help, and highlighting the efforts of thousands of volunteers on projects across the country to save lives.”

The MATES in Construction program has built a network of more than 20,000 volunteers who have undergone industry-specific training that helps them identify workmates who might be at risk and know how to offer them the support they need.

“COVID-19 has made these efforts more important than ever this year, with many workers facing greater social isolation, uncertainty, and financial hardship as a result of the pandemic.”

Construction, energy and mining workers in need of mental health assistance can call the MATES 24/7 helpline anytime on 1 300 642 111.

Some other numbers to call for help include:

Remember that it’s OK to be sad, it’s OK to be angry, it’s OK to be frustrated and it’s OK to not be OK. But it is not OK for anyone to have to suffer in silence.

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