Construction Inclusion Week 2025: Toolbox Talk 6

Mental Health in Construction

Learning to talk about mental health without stigma is a key part of keeping our teams safe. 

This conversation helps you understand why mental well-being is a critical part of jobsite safety and how to support yourself and your crew. You'll learn how to spot signs of burnout and emotional distress in others, and get practical tips for checking in and asking for help when needed. The goal is to break the silence around stress, anxiety, and depression. By doing this, we connect mental wellness to better long-term retention and overall safety on every project.

PILLAR ALIGNMENT: Attract & Retain, Belonging & Workforce Culture, Commitment & Accountability

Sample Activity Options

JOBSITE ACTIVITY

Start a “Quiet Space” initiative. Create one area on site for short breaks or reset.

OFFICE ACTIVITY

Bring in a local Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or counselor for Q&A (anonymous questions allowed).

School/Community Activity

Co-host a youth mental safety day with short talks and role plays.

Group Activity

Go around and answer, what helps you reset when things feel off?

Discussion Questions

Just like we watch out for each other's physical safety on the jobsite, we need to look out for our mental well-being too. That’s why we want to  create a jobsite where it's okay to not be okay. We'll talk about how to recognize signs that a teammate might be struggling and the practical ways we can offer support without being a counselor. The goal is to build a crew culture where everyone feels supported, so no one has to go it alone.

  • Why do so many people stay silent about mental health?
  • What are some signs that someone may be having a challenging time?
  • How can we support a teammate who’s experiencing stress or burnout?
  • How can we support others without acting like counselors?
  • How can leaders reinforce the message that it’s OK not to be, OK?

Start planning your Toolbox Talk Activities now! Download this Toolbox Talk below or download the full set:

Download Toolbox Talk 6 Download All Toolbox Talks

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Opening Doors through Mentorship

Mentor your crew to build a stronger team

Sparking Early Interest in the Construction Industry

Build a talent pipeline by inspiring the next generation

Respect and Inclusion on the Jobsite/ Workplace

Create a respectful crew for a safer jobsite

Career Re-entry

Build your workforce by giving second chances

Building an Inclusive Site Culture

Reinforce an inclusive crew with everyday actions

Mental Health in Construction

Promote mental well-being to build a safer jobsite

Psychological Safety in Construction

Constructing a Culture of Trust and Safety

Pivot & Build – Life After Athletics

Harness athletic talent to strengthen your crew

Construction Careers for Veterans

Framing Opportunities for Veterans in Construction

Supporting People with Different Abilities and Neurodivergent Thinking Styles

Different minds, same mission: a stronger crew

Small Actions, Big Impact

Small actions build a stronger jobsite culture.

Bridging Generations: Respecting Differences, Building Together

Uniting Crews Through Generational Understanding

Economic Opportunity - Broadening Opportunity for Qualified Suppliers

Expanding Possibilities Through a Broad Supplier Network
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