Today we’re celebrating the relentlessly inspiring work of @MATESConstruct, the leading construction mental health charity across Australia and New Zealand 🙌 MATES is run by an amazing team. It provides suicide prevention through community development programs on sites, and by supporting workers in need through case management and a 24/7 help line. Those in Australia can call 1300 642 111. The MATES program is based on the simple idea that suicide is everyone’s business. The team believes that if the building and construction industry in Australia is to improve the mental health and well-being of workers and reduce suicide, then it cannot be left to mental health professionals: everyone in the industry must play their part. You can learn more and access resources or support over at mates.org.au MATES in Construction is one of five leading construction mental health charities worldwide that’s partnering with and supported by the #GetConstructionTalking campaign. We’re highlighting the amazing work of each charity in turn as we countdown to World Mental Health Day and our Construction Mental Health Summit in London on October 10. The other charities are The Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention (US), Lighthouse (UK and Ireland), Mates in Mind (UK) and Construction Sport (UK).

When it comes to work and #MentalHealth there’s sadly no shortage of problems to investigate, says IHT’s Professor Tony LaMontagne. He’s been working with @MATESConstruct to examine and reduce the suicide rate in the construction industry: deakin.au/3r2k6jJ