Safety is always on our mind at Michels. We incorporate this Core Value into everything we do, putting our people’s physical and mental well-being first.
In observation of World Mental Health Day and as part of our ongoing Mind Matters initiative, Michels provided programming and reminders of the importance of taking care of oneself—and one another—at our locations on Oct. 10. In addition to a webinar that tackled the topic of social media’s effect on mental health, activities focused on suicide prevention.
Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States, and suicide rates in the construction industry are four times higher than the national average due to factors such as family separation and isolation tied to travel, sleep disruptions or deprivation, injuries and stress. By addressing suicide in our safety conversations, we remain committed to overcoming the stigma surrounding mental health.
Michels’ Concern. Ask. Resources. Empower. (CARE) training, a component of Mind Matters, educates our people so they can recognize the signs that someone is struggling with thoughts of suicide, be a gatekeeper and offer resources when needed. Two sessions of this suicide prevention and awareness program were held on Oct. 10, and new virtual options also debuted. Many Michels employees wore green to show their support of mental health awareness.
When we speak of physical safety goals, we measure success by seeing our people return home safely each night. By also investing in their mental well-being, we show them how important it is for them to come back safely the next day too.
Suicide prevention lifelines are available 24/7 by dialing 988 in the United States, 833-456-4566 in Canada, 0800 1110111 in Germany and 13 11 14 in Australia.