Sept. 8-12 was Suicide Prevention Week, which provides an opportunity within the construction industry to bring awareness to mental health and address the well-being of every person who makes our work possible. Several national studies have found that one in five construction workers faces mental health challenges and one in six workers between the ages of 16 and 64 died from a fatal overdose. These numbers are not just statistics, they are real people; our colleagues, friends, neighbors and loved ones. These numbers remind us that the mental health crisis and disproportionately high suicide rates in our industry are real, urgent and deeply personal.
At Earthworks Grading and Paving, LLC, we are accustomed to addressing the challenges the industry faces. Excellence is not just in the work we produce but in our relationships with people that make it possible. Our passion extends to how we address the mentality within the workforce that leads to suicide and what we can do to prevent it.
The construction industry introduced me to a culture of grit, perseverance and mental toughness that helped me overcome difficult situations. While these traits are often perceived as positive, over time they can be limiting and lead to mental health challenges and an isolation mindset. I discovered that by addressing my mental and emotional foundation, I not only improved my life, but also the lives of those around me. Adversity can be the greatest catalyst of success if we have the right mindset and the right tools.
My turning point with my own “health under the hard hat” came when I discovered breath work. While it may sound simple, the practice has been nothing short of life-changing. This tool helped me find clarity and purpose through regulation of the nervous system. I have started implementing this practice in my own business and am passionate about sharing it with the construction industry.
The strongest structures are those built on solid foundations. The same is true for people. The construction industry has given my life a purpose as it has for many. That’s why Construction Cares, Inc. was born: to care for every person who keeps our industry moving and remind every worker they are never alone. Our mission is to provide resources, education and community for construction workers who too often feel they must “tough it out” in silence.
Now, it is my turn to give back. I am honored to serve as vice president of the board for Construction Cares, Inc. as both a construction entrepreneur and a holistic health instructor. I am dedicated to connecting outer achievement and inner awareness. When we prioritize mental health, we’re not just building projects — we’re building healthier lives, stronger teams and a more sustainable future for our industry.
Vaughn Cruz is the managing member of Earthworks Grading and Paving, LLC, with 17 years in the construction industry and is a holistic health instructor in Henderson.
