LITTLE CHUTE, Wis. (WFRV) – Construction workers across Wisconsin joined colleagues nationwide this week in a powerful show of solidarity for Suicide Prevention Awareness Week, pausing their work to bring attention to mental health struggles in one of the country’s most vulnerable industries.

At exactly 1:50 p.m., employees at Faith Technologies Inc. (FTI) sites across the United States – including workers at Excellerate in Little Chute – stepped away from their tasks to take part in a moment of silence.

“Everyone is coming off the floor today to talk about suicide prevention and the stigma around it, and talking about the resources available. If they need it personally, or a loved one that might need it, and talking about the importance of it and being there for one another,” said Alyssa Kwasny, Wellness Program Director at Faith Technologies Inc.

The initiative is part of Construction Suicide Prevention Week, a national campaign aimed at reducing stigma, increasing awareness, and encouraging open conversations around mental health in a field that faces uniquely high risks.

According to industry data, construction has the highest suicide rate of any U.S. occupation, with workers four times more likely to die by suicide than the national average. “The construction industry has the highest rate of suicide, so we are 4 times greater than the average industry; the more we can talk about suicide awareness, the better,” Kwasny emphasized.

For construction leaders, safety isn’t only about physical protection on the job site. Josh Ring, Safety Director at Excellerate, said mental well-being is equally vital. “It’s the importance of understanding not only physical safety but mental safety as well… in the construction industry, we use a lot of power tools, and do a lot of hazardous or high-risk activities, which require 100% focus; if your mind isn’t on the task you are working on, a slip can result in a serious life-changing injury,” Ring explained.

Although the nationwide “Stand Down” lasted just one minute, its message carries much greater weight. FTI and other companies hope that the symbolic pause will encourage workers to seek help, check in on their colleagues, and foster a culture where discussing mental health is seen as a strength rather than a stigma.

Across the country, construction firms are expanding wellness programs, offering employee assistance services, and providing training to supervisors and team members to better recognize the warning signs of mental distress. Industry leaders say these steps are critical to shifting a culture where toughness and silence often overshadow vulnerability and support.

The campaign also serves as a reminder that help is always available. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, you can call or text 988 anytime to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Originally reported by Ellie Davis in We Are Green Bay.