AFSP's Hard Hat Courage Initiative Provides Mental Health Resources to Construction Workers

AFSP's Hard Hat Courage Initiative

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) has made significant strides in mental health advocacy with its Hard Hat Courage initiative, successfully reaching over 188,000 professionals within the craft and construction sectors. Launched in May 2025, this impactful campaign aims to pave the way for much-needed conversations about suicide prevention and mental health, areas that have historically been overlooked in the industry.

During the recent Construction Suicide Prevention Week, which took place from September 8 to 12, 2025, the initiative garnered notable participation, with over 165,000 construction workers engaging in various programs and events designed to raise awareness and provide essential resources. In partnership with several key organizations, including the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and Construction Suicide Prevention Week, AFSP is committed to expanding the reach of its life-saving messages.

Understanding the Challenge

The construction industry has been grappling with alarmingly high suicide rates, statistically mapping at 53.3 per 100,000 workers, making it one of the highest risk sectors for suicide in the United States, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Fatalities due to suicide highlight the urgent necessity to foster a supportive community within the industry. AFSP aims to fortify connections among workers, establishing a culture where looking out for one another becomes a core value on and off the jobsite.

Innovative Resources for Mental Health

On August 19, 2025, Hard Hat Courage launched a new digital platform, HardHatCourage.com, and introduced 15 specialized suicide prevention resources catered specifically for construction professionals. This range of materials emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental health, paralleling safety protocols typically reserved for physical conditions at construction sites. Since its launch, the new resources have seen over 360 downloads, demonstrating a growing interest in mental health education within the industry.