Mental Health And Wellness Hub

Construction workers nationwide face the second highest suicide rate of any U.S. industry—over three times the national average. In fact, more construction workers now die by suicide than in workplace accidents.

If you’re struggling with mental health, addiction, or anything else, don’t wait to get help. Free, confidential support is available 24/7.

Access Services & Crisis Lines in Your Area

Navigating Mental Health in the Construction Industry

The construction industry is a high-pressure environment with unique mental health challenges. To help create healthier job sites and reduce the stigma around mental health, explore the resources and information below to learn more and get involved.

Resources for Industry Professionals

Lines for Life

Lines for Life is Oregon’s provider for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, offering mental health and substance abuse prevention programs, along with crisis support services.

Construction Suicide Prevention Partnership (CSPP)

Lines for Life partnered with the construction industry to create CSPP, aiming to prevent suicide and promote mental well-being with support from unions, safety experts, OSHA, SAIF, and healthcare partners.

Oregon Suicide Prevention

Hosted by Lines for Life, this site offers information and support on suicide prevention, helping those struggling with suicidal thoughts and providing guidance for those looking to offer support.

Washington State Health Care Authority

Regional Crisis Lines are available 24/7, 365 days a year. You can call 988 or your local county crisis line for assistance with a behavioral health crisis, regardless of insurance or income level.

Electrical Contractor Magazine

Explore articles and updates on mental health in the electrical construction industry and learn how leaders are tackling this critical issue.

IBEW Local 48 Wellness Resources

Get access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for counseling, a Nurse Help Line, free wellness exams, and services like legal consultation and financial coaching.

Videos & Resources.

Mental Health Summit Resources & Leadership Trainings

Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health in Construction

The construction industry has long fostered a culture where personal struggles, especially mental health, are overlooked or dismissed. This stigma often prevents workers from seeking help. However, as the industry faces high rates of mental health issues, there’s a growing recognition that mental well-being is just as important as physical safety.

By fostering open conversations, developing accessible resources, and building supportive environments we can break down the stigma and create a healthier, safer work environment. Prioritizing mental health not only improves well-being but also enhances overall jobsite productivity and safety.

If you or a coworker need support, start here.

Mental Health FAQs

Where can I get mental health help right now?

You can reach the 988 Lifeline anytime for free, confidential mental health support. Call, text, or chat with a trained counselor, and your conversation will remain private. In Oregon and Southwest Washington, 988 connects you with trained crisis counselors who provide free, confidential support for mental health crises, substance use concerns, and emotional distress. In Oregon, Lines for Life supports 988 services, while Washington connects callers with local crisis centers and resources. Regional county crisis lines are available 24/7 as well, regardless of insurance or income. View our Guide to Mental Health Resources for more information.

How can I support a coworker or family member who’s struggling?

You don’t have to be a counselor or have the perfect words. Start by noticing changes and reaching out. Struggling often shows up first in everyday ways: showing up late or missing work, taking less care and making more mistakes, or seeming more withdrawn than usual. If something seems off, say so and ask how they’re doing. Not sure what to say? You can call or text 988 yourself to get guidance on how to help someone else. You can also point them to the IBEW Local 48 Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or share the Oregon-Columbia Chapter of NECA Mental Health & Wellness resources.

Are counseling and support services free and confidential for IBEW Local 48 members?

Yes. Members have access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential counseling, a nurse help line, free wellness exams, and services like legal and financial coaching for members and their families.

What is the Construction Suicide Prevention Partnership (CSPP)?

CSPP is a coalition created by Lines for Life with the construction industry, including unions, contractors, safety experts, OSHA, SAIF, and healthcare partners. It builds free resources and training to support mental health on the job. NECA-IBEW Local 48 also partners with industry organizations, including Construction Working Minds and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, to support members and their families.

What support is available for substance use or addiction?

The same resources cover substance use. Lines for Life offers substance use prevention and support alongside its crisis services, and the member EAP can connect you with confidential counseling and treatment referrals. Call or text 988 any time to get started.

About

For over a century, NECA/IBEW Local 48’s electricians have helped build Oregon and SW Washington. NECA and IBEW Local 48 have partnered in labor-management relations to lead the region’s electrical industry, working on such high-profile projects as the Rose Garden Arena (now the Moda Center), Portland International Airport, Tilikum Crossing and MAX Light Rail stations.

Our contractors are located in: Astoria, Banks, Battleground, Beaverton, Clackamas, Estacada, Fairview, Forest Grove, Garibaldi, Gresham, Happy Valley, Hillsboro, Hood River, Longview, Manning, Milwaukie, Molalla, Mulino, North Plains, Oregon City, Portland, Salem, Sandy, Scappoose, The Dalles, Tigard, Troutdale, Tualatin, Vancouver, Vernonia, Warrenton, and Yamhill.