The construction industry in Nova Scotia is doing its part to support the mental health of workers.

A report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) south of the border finds that the rates of suicide in the construction industry are estimated to be three to four times higher than in the general population.

MJ MacDonald, the CEO of Construction Safety Nova Scotia, said the statistic left her “shocked” and “appalled.”

“And then there was this sense of moving into action and what can we do to help?” said MacDonald.

Over the next year, the association will be partnering with the Canadian Mental Health Foundation to create a peer-to-peer support program that will place volunteers throughout the sector.

“We know that combating it means being able to speak safely with somebody and creating cultures where it’s OK to talk about it,” said MacDonald.

On RCS Construction sites, the mental well-being of their staff is paramount.

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