How one contractor is confronting mental health in construction

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Mississippi roofing company tackles the mental health crisis in construction to help prevent suicide.   

In the construction industry, where suicide rates remain alarmingly high, Graham Roofing, a small business in West Point, Mississippi, has taken significant steps to address the issue by implementing a comprehensive mental health program for its employees. Co-owner and President Christee Holbrook was motivated to act after three suicides involving current and former employees left the close-knit company reeling with grief. 

"You hear about it all the time and don't think it's going to happen to you," Christee remarked, expressing the emotional toll these tragedies took on her team. Determined to prevent further losses, she initiated efforts to provide her workers with access to mental health support. 

Christee’s journey began in 2018 after one employee, struggling with depression following a non-work-related injury, died by suicide. Recognizing the need for proactive mental health care, Christee brought in counselors to speak with her employees — a move that initially faced resistance, but gradually helped open the door for more open conversations. 

In collaboration with Mandy McIntyre, a mental health first-aid trainer, Christee developed a company-specific mental health program. “She helped me write my first mental health program and it’s very unique to us,” Christee explained, noting the importance of addressing mental health early and directly. 

Regular toolbox talks and bi-annual counseling sessions are now part of the company’s initiative. “I think you can cut down on some of the stigma upfront if you just address it head-on and lead by example,” Christee said, demonstrating the critical role leadership plays in creating a supportive environment. 

Christee encourages other contractors to establish mental health programs, warning, “Don’t wait until you’ve already had it happen. Get a program in place. It may make a difference.” 

Original article source: Equipment World