In this powerful episode of The Frontline Focus, we explore the critical topic of mental health and wellness in construction with Greg Sizemore from Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). This conversation dives deep into creating caring cultures that support total human health in an industry where the human element often takes a back seat to production.
Episode Highlights
In this candid discussion, we uncover powerful insights about mental health, workplace culture, and the future of construction. Here are the key takeaways that could transform how we approach wellness in the construction industry.
The Reality of Mental Health in Construction
The stark statistics tell a sobering story: while 1,008 construction workers died on job sites in 2018, 5,242 died by suicide in the same year. These numbers from the CDC rocked the industry and highlighted an urgent crisis that demands attention. The construction workforce, predominantly comprised of 45-year-old white males, aligns worryingly with demographic groups at highest risk for suicide. Adding to this challenge is the industry culture of "toughing it out" and the stigma around seeking help, creating a perfect storm that needs immediate addressing. Sizemore emphasizes that these aren't just numbers – they represent real people, families, and communities affected by this crisis.
Total Human Health Approach
Sizemore introduces the concept of total human health, built on four essential pillars: body, heart, spirit, and mind. The body component focuses on creating proper working conditions and infrastructure that support physical wellbeing - from adequate restroom facilities to appropriate safety measures. The heart aspect involves engaging workers in meaningful community activities and giving back, which helps maintain motivation and purpose. The spirit component addresses work-life balance and personal growth, while the mind focuses on mental fitness and creating safe spaces for authentic conversations. This comprehensive approach recognizes that construction workers aren't just laborers - they're whole human beings whose wellbeing depends on more than just physical safety measures.
Creating Change in Your Zip Code
Rather than attempting to solve industry-wide problems all at once, Sizemore advocates for starting change locally - in your "zip code." This practical approach includes innovative initiatives like mental health champions wearing distinctive purple vests on job sites, creating natural conversation starters about mental health. Companies are implementing peer groups where workers can discuss their daily "peaks and pits," fostering open dialogue about challenges and successes. Some organizations are introducing chaplaincy services not for religious purposes but as coaching resources, while others are creating "Under the Hard Hat" video series where employees share their personal stories. These local initiatives, when successful, naturally spread and create wider industry impact.
Meet the Guest
Greg Sizemore serves as Vice President Workforce Development Safety Health and Environmental at Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), bringing over three decades of construction industry experience. Starting as a laborer digging ditches, he worked his way up through various roles to become an executive focused on workforce development and safety. His journey from the field to leadership gives him unique insights into the challenges and opportunities facing construction workers today.
Listen Now
Tune in to this conversation on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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