Portland, OR — A new training course intended to help construction supervisors recognize and appropriately respond to workers experiencing mental health issues is free to access throughout September in recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
Developed by the Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, the 60-minute, self-paced course features evidence-based content from occupational health experts in construction, a two-week behavior tracking tool to help track supportive supervisor behaviors that reinforce learning, and downloadable tools and resources.
Participants will learn how to:
- Use practical strategies to reduce worker stress.
- Support employees’ mental health with preventive strategies.
According to CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training, nearly half of all construction workers experience depression, and work-related factors are strongly associated with poor mental health in the industry. Those factors include employment instability/insecurity, job demands, lack of support, long work hours, hazardous work, poor psychosocial and safety climates, injuries, and bullying and harassment.
