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A conversation could change a life

If you work in the construction industry, you’re probably well-versed in safety procedures. When your day job consists of dealing with heavy machinery, scaffolding and thousands of tonnes of material, it’s not all that surprising that it’s a career that comes with considerable risk. But what may surprise you, is that if you work in construction, the greatest risk to your safety is not physical – but mental.

According to research by Mates in Construction, construction workers are six times more likely to die from suicide than from a workplace accident, and twice as likely to take their own lives than people in other industries.

You can wear all the safety gear you like and follow the OHS book to the letter – but what’s the secret to dealing with struggles when they’re a result of the so-called Black Dog?

According to research by Mates in Construction, construction workers are six times more likely to die from suicide than from a workplace accident, and twice as likely to take their own lives than people in other industries. You can wear all the safety gear you like and follow the OHS book to the letter – but what’s the secret to dealing with struggles when they’re a result of the so-called Black Dog?

It all comes down to having a conversation, acknowledging how you’re feeling and getting help. That’s the crux of R U OK Day, of which FDC is a passionate supporter. The national suicide prevention initiative aims to minimise the shame and stigma around mental health, with the message that starting a conversation could save a life.

To support this notion, three people close to the FDC family were generous enough to open up about their own personal stories of mental adversity. FDC Site Manager, Ben Woods, shared the trauma of losing his brother Jase Woods to suicide. Former Commando, Mick Bainbridge, brother of FDC Development Manager Tim Bainbridge, talked honestly about the mental injuries he sustained working in a war zone and Jess Cottle, daughter of FDC Director, Blake Cottle addressed her struggle with mental illness and why she is now a passionate youth mental health advocate. While their stories are vastly different, what they have in common is vulnerability and resilience – having the strength to speak up, seek help and make a difference to others in the process.

To read about Jess, Ben and Mick’s experiences, visit fdcbuilding.com.au/ruok

To learn more about R U OK Day, visit RUOK.org.au. For crisis support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14