Toolbox Talk - Mental Health & Workplace Safety

For many years it was considered taboo to talk about mental health at work and other public places. Fortunately, the stigma over talking about mental health is changing.

Two mental health conditions that are most frequently observed in the workplace are depression and anxiety.

It is important to treat mental health like we do physical health. We do not blame individuals for getting sick so we should be accepting of individuals who may be struggling with mental health issues.

It is important to treat all employees with respect. The company’s Safety culture is intended to build a caring culture where we look after one another.

Checking in with your crewmates to let them know you care demonstrates respect and concern for their wellbeing. Taking time to listen or being patient can go a long way to making people feel respected and cared for.

Mental health is a personal issue, a family issue, a community issue, and a society issue. This is why mental health is increasingly being integrated into safety, health and wellness programs:

The Reed Companies are members of the Central Valley and Sacramento Greater Area chapter of Hard Hats with Heart, the American Heart Association’s construction industry specific health initiative. We utilize Hard Hats with Heart resources, including toolbox talks, to improve the mental and physical health of craftworkers.
The BUILD employee newsletter covers wellness topics in the “BUILD YOUR HEALTH” section each month. September is National Suicide Prevention Month, so mental health resources are featured in this month's issue.

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